Not surprisingly, NYS Sen. George Borrello takes an extremely partisan position regarding Gov. Kathy Hochul’s recently enacted ‘Birds & Bees Protection Act.’

The Act restricts the use of neonicotinoid-treated seeds, as they are related to hive abandonment syndrome (aka Colony Collapse Distorder) in bees. The Act encourages the development and use of less harmful and more economical alternatives over time.

A toxic pollutant, neonicotinoids (neonics) enter the environment through coated seeds. The toxin then is taken up by the developing plant where pollinators, such as bees and ruby-throated hummingbirds, encounter it in flowers. Only a small percentage of the toxin is used by the plant, with the remainder staying in the soil where it can be taken up by other flowering plants and weeds and enter groundwater.

According to an article published Dec. 23^rd in the Wellsville Sun, the good senator claims this Act would hurt NYS farming industry and that the governor enacted the law without any input from state farmers, some of whom oppose the act.

The president of the NYS Farm Bureau, however, according to that same article, stated that the Governor invited input and mediated concerns from all sides, including farmers.

I just wanted to set the record straight.

Sincerely,

Ly Kesse, Representative                                                                                                                           

Alfred, NY District 1

Allegany County Democratic Committee