Saving America's Pollinators Act of 2023: A Bold Step to Protect Bees and Other Pollinators

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects play a critical role in maintaining the health of ecosystems and ensuring the production of many of the crops we depend on. In the U.S. alone, pollinators contribute over $20 billion to agricultural output each year. However, in recent years, pollinator populations have been in steep decline due to habitat loss, climate change, and, significantly, the widespread use of harmful pesticides. The Saving America’s Pollinators Act of 2023 (H.R. 4277) is a renewed effort by lawmakers to address one of the most pressing threats to pollinators—neonicotinoid pesticides, often referred to as "neonics."

This legislation, introduced by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Jim McGovern (D-MA), aims to protect bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators by restricting the use of dangerous pesticides that have been linked to pollinator decline.

What is the Saving America’s Pollinators Act of 2023?

The Saving America’s Pollinators Act was reintroduced in July 2023 to establish federal safeguards to protect pollinators. The primary goal of the bill is to suspend the use of neonicotinoid pesticides—a class of insecticides that have been shown to harm bees and other beneficial insects. These pesticides are widely used in agriculture and are highly persistent in the environment, meaning they can remain toxic to insects long after application.

According to the bill’s sponsors, neonics are a significant driver of colony collapse disorder, the phenomenon where entire colonies of bees suddenly disappear or die. This phenomenon, along with broader pollinator population declines, threatens both food production and biodiversity.

Key Provisions of the Act:

1. Suspension of Neonicotinoid Use: The bill calls for an immediate suspension of neonicotinoid pesticides until the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completes a thorough review of their impacts on pollinator populations.

2. Creation of a Pollinator Protection Board: The legislation would create an independent Pollinator Protection Board composed of scientists and pollinator experts. This board would be responsible for evaluating the scientific data on neonicotinoids and advising the EPA on future regulatory actions.

3. Protection of Other Insect Species: While bees are the primary focus of this bill, the Act also emphasizes the need to protect other pollinators like butterflies, moths, and even some bird species that rely on pollination for food.

Why is this Legislation Necessary?

Pollinator populations have been plummeting in recent years. Honeybee colonies have suffered from colony collapse disorder, while wild bee species and butterflies have faced similar threats. Pesticides like neonics weaken bees' immune systems, impair their ability to forage, and disrupt their reproductive cycles. The sheer scale of their usage in modern agriculture means that even small doses of these chemicals can have lasting and harmful impacts on pollinator health.

The Saving America’s Pollinators Act of 2023 builds on earlier efforts by lawmakers to restrict pesticide use and expand pollinator protections. However, previous versions of the bill failed to gain sufficient momentum in Congress. With growing awareness of the pollinator crisis, as well as increased public support for environmental protection, advocates hope that this year’s version of the bill will have a greater chance of success.

Blumenauer and McGovern’s Renewed Call to Action

In announcing the reintroduction of the bill, Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Jim McGovern highlighted the urgency of addressing pollinator decline. At a press conference, Rep. Blumenauer stated, “Pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat. The science is clear that pesticides, particularly neonics, are a major contributor to the collapse of pollinator populations.”

Blumenauer has been a long-time advocate for pollinator protection. His previous initiatives include supporting local and national efforts to reduce pesticide use and promote habitat restoration. In tandem with McGovern, he emphasized that protecting pollinators is not just an environmental issue—it’s also an economic one. The crops most dependent on pollination, such as almonds, apples, and blueberries, represent a significant portion of U.S. agricultural production.

McGovern, known for his work on food security and sustainable agriculture, added, “If we don’t act soon, the consequences will be severe not only for the environment but also for our food supply. We must take bold action to save the bees and other pollinators.”

The Science Behind Neonicotinoids and Pollinator Decline

Neonicotinoids are systemic insecticides, meaning they are absorbed by plants and can be found in their leaves, pollen, and nectar. This poses a significant threat to pollinators that rely on these plants for food. Studies have shown that even low levels of exposure to neonics can disorient bees, impair their foraging abilities, and reduce reproductive success.

In addition to harming bees, neonics have been found to disrupt aquatic ecosystems, as they often leach into water sources. This far-reaching impact makes the case for stronger regulation and alternative pest management strategies, such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

What Can Be Done to Help Pollinators?

While the Saving America’s Pollinators Act of 2023 represents a critical step forward, there are additional actions that individuals, communities, and local governments can take to protect pollinators:

1. Support Pollinator-Friendly Practices: Homeowners can reduce or eliminate pesticide use in their gardens, opting for organic or natural pest control methods. Planting pollinator-friendly flowers, trees, and shrubs provides essential habitats and food sources for bees and butterflies.

2. Advocate for Local Legislation: Many cities and states have already enacted pollinator protection policies. Encouraging your local representatives to support initiatives like the Saving America’s Pollinators Act is an important step toward broader protections.

3. Educate and Raise Awareness: Public awareness is crucial for creating change. Sharing information about the impacts of pesticides on pollinators and the importance of sustainable agriculture can help shift consumer behavior and influence policymakers.

4. Get Involved with Organizations: Many conservation organizations, such as the Xerces Society and Bee City USA, offer resources for individuals and communities looking to protect pollinators. Volunteering or donating to these organizations can help further the cause.

Conclusion

The Saving America’s Pollinators Act of 2023 is an important piece of legislation that addresses the urgent need to protect bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. By suspending the use of harmful neonicotinoid pesticides and establishing a Pollinator Protection Board, the Act provides a blueprint for reversing pollinator decline and fostering a healthier environment. Pollinators are vital to both our food supply and ecosystems, and protecting them is critical for a sustainable future.

To learn more about the Act and how you can support it, visit the official bill page and explore Rep. Blumenauer’s press release. Every action counts in the fight to save our pollinators!