California To Ban Pesticide Linked To Brain Damage In Children

California will end the use of the pesticide chlorpyrifos due to its link to brain damage in children. The state reached an agreement with the manufacturer to halt sales by February, with farmers given until the end of 2020 to use existing supplies. Chlorpyrifos, used on various crops, was deemed a toxic air contaminant in 2018. It poses health risks at lower exposure levels than previously thought, affecting children's neurological development. The state will invest over $5 million to develop safer alternatives. Governor Gavin Newsom praised the move as a victory for public health. The EPA had considered a federal ban in 2015 but reversed the decision in 2017.

What financial support will the state provide to help develop safer pesticide alternatives?

What was the response of California Governor Gavin Newsom regarding the deal on chlorpyrifos?