Co-Sponsorship Memo Details

First held in 1970 to draw attention to environmental issues facing our planet, Earth Day is now the largest secular observance in the world, celebrated by more than one billion people. As we celebrate Earth Day, Representative Kazeem and I ask that we pause to consider the challenges facing our environment and the various actions we can take to aid in its protection and conservation.
 
Scientific studies have linked exposure to toxic chemicals found in certain herbicides to asthma, cancer, developmental and learning disabilities, nerve and immune system damage, liver and kidney damage, reproductive impairment, birth defects, and the disruption of the endocrine system and the microbiome. Because of this, the City of Philadelphia passed the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces (HOPS) ordinance, which prohibits any person from applying synthetic herbicides on city grounds.
 
In recognition of Earth Day and the importance of protecting our environment, Representative Kazeem and I  will be introducing legislation based on Philadelphia’s HOPS ordinance. Our legislation prohibits the use of synthetic herbicides on public grounds. In addition, this legislation provides for the development of an organic land management plan and practices to better understand, prevent, and control actual and potential plants considered to be noxious weeds.
 
We have a shared responsibility to do our part for the environment, wildlife, and our future generations. Therefore, we ask that you please join us in sponsoring this important legislation.