In today's newscast:
A bill in the state assembly would ban PFAS, or “forever” chemicals.
In a webinar Wednesday, staff from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) presented their analysis of the impacts PFAS pesticide residues leave behind.
Salinas City Council member Andrew Sandoval was among the speakers.
"Lately I’ve been more increasingly concerned about the pesticides my family and neighbors have been regularly exposed to," he said.
Sandoval noted Monterey County children are exposed to elevated levels of forever chemicals. He also cited an EWG finding that these chemicals were applied in Monterey County more than 1,000 times between 2018 and 2023.
“Nearly half a million pounds of PFAS ingredients were spread throughout our county," said Sandoval. "It’s time to put an end to the widespread use of these pesticides.”
EWG’s analysis found PFAS chemicals were active in 5% of state-registered pesticides, yet the chemicals persisted on 15% of state-grown produce. The far reach of these pesticides prompted Los Angeles County Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D-Burbank) to sponsor AB 1603.
“We can do better for our kids. I’m not trying to upend or demoralize or make it harder than it has to be (for) an industry that is a cornerstone of California’s economy," said Schultz. "That’s what I’m asking everyone. If you think the bill is imperfect—great—then work with us to make it better.”
The bill would ensure communities get updates when PFAS chemicals are sprayed nearby–ahead of its goal of a 2035 phase out.
Bill outlawing e-bike piggybacking
Piling multiple people on e-bikes not designed for that could be outlawed if a bill from Orange County Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) passes.
Our newsroom partner, Cap Radio, reported People for Bikes, an e-bike trade group, opposes the bill, which is headed to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
