Standing Strong on Legislative Priorities
Faye Golden, Cook's Pest Control, Inc.
As we enter 2025, our industry faces critical legislative and regulatory challenges. As both NPMA president and a government relations professional, I’m particularly attuned to how these issues affect our daily operations and long-term success in protecting public health and property.
Our cover story details the ongoing journey to secure state-level pesticide preemption in the Farm Bill—a journey that demonstrates both the complexity of the legislative process and the persistence required for meaningful policy change. While we saw encouraging momentum in 2024, with the House Committee on Agriculture including preemption language and Sen. John Boozman’s framework supporting our position, the path forward remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: NPMA remains committed to working across party lines to achieve this crucial federal fix.
The feature on rodenticide regulations highlights another pressing challenge. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed restrictions could significantly impact how we protect our communities from rodent infestations. While the agency has shown willingness to engage with our concerns, we must continue demonstrating that professional pest management requires a practical, science-based approach.
Both issues underscore the importance of unified industry advocacy. Our voice is strongest when we speak as one. This is why I’m particularly excited about our upcoming Legislative Day program happening March 9-11—an opportunity for our members to directly engage with lawmakers and share our industry’s story.
As we navigate these challenges, I’m encouraged by our industry’s proactive approach to implementing the best practices and embracing new technologies. From technicians focusing on root causes to business owners investing in education, we’re showing regulators and legislators that we’re committed to responsible pest management.
Your engagement in these issues matters more than ever. I encourage you to read these articles carefully, share them with colleagues, and, most importantly, get involved. Every action counts toward securing our industry’s future.
