Vermont becomes first US state to ban paraquat herbicide over Parkinson’s fears
Vermont has become the first state in the U.S. to ban the herbicide paraquat due to concerns over its link to Parkinson's disease. The ban, signed into law by Governor Phil Scott, will take effect on November 1, 2026, with certain exceptions for specific crops until 2030. This decision follows extensive research indicating that paraquat exposure significantly increases the risk of developing Parkinson's and other serious health issues.
- ▪Vermont is the first U.S. state to ban the herbicide paraquat.
- ▪The ban is based on studies linking paraquat to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease.
- ▪Governor Phil Scott signed the legislation, which includes provisions for special permits until 2030.
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‘Paraquat has been used in the United States since 1964 as a tool to kill broadleaf weeds and grasses.’ Photograph: fotokostic/Getty Images/iStockphotoView image in fullscreen‘Paraquat has been used in the United States since 1964 as a tool to kill broadleaf weeds and grasses.’ Photograph: fotokostic/Getty Images/iStockphotoVermontVermont becomes first US state to ban paraquat herbicide over Parkinson’s fearsLawmakers cite studies linking weedkiller to Parkinson’s as pressure mounts for a wider US banCarey GillamTue 26 May 2026 16.46 EDTLast modified on Tue 26 May 2026 16.49 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleVermont is the first US state to ban the weedkilling pesticide paraquat, backed by lawmakers who cited concerns about research showing the chemical substantially increases the risk…
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