Delaware legislators are considering legislation that would substantially raise the maximum fees charged for pesticide registration in the state.
House Bill 221 would authorize the Delaware Department of Agriculture to collect up to $500 every two years for pesticide registration, representing a significant jump from the current ceiling of $140 per registration period.
The proposed measure also includes minor technical updates to bring current pesticide regulations in line with Delaware’s legislative drafting standards.
Due to constitutional provisions outlined in Article VIII, Section 10 of the Delaware Constitution, the bill will need approval from three-fifths of elected members in both chambers of the General Assembly to become law. This supermajority requirement applies to any legislation that raises tax rates or licensing fees.
The Department of Agriculture has not yet indicated whether it plans to implement the full $500 fee or a smaller increase if the legislation passes.
