California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 1042, which introduces new state requirements for the sale and use of seeds that have been coated with pesticides. This reporting program is the first of its kind in the United States.

 

Under the new requirements, starting January 1, 2026, it will be a violation of California law to sell or use seeds that have been treated with a pesticide that is not registered for use in the state of California. AB 1042 also requires that in 2025, county agricultural commissioners begin reporting to the public when treated seeds are used by growers in the county. In 2026, commissioners will be required to report not only when treated seeds are used, but how many pounds of treated seeds have been planted.