The State of Maryland has become the first to ban neonicotinoids for consumer use at a state wide level. The Pollinator Protection Act (HB 198 and SB 211) went into law on May 27 without Governor Hogan's signature. Consumers will no longer be able to purchase products containing neonicotinoids starting in January of 2018. The Act does allow for use by state certified applicators, farmers, and veterinarians and can be purchased at places that sell restricted use pesticides.

The state of Connecticut is also working to restrict the use of neonicotinoid pesticides through legislative action.  The legislation contains more specifics for application areas and plant material, including best management practices for seed coated with neonicotinoids in crop production.  The two states states are leading the nation in pollinator protection legislation and may become the model for legislation in other states in the future.