California Assemblymember Nick Schultz and public health advocates recently discussed Assembly Bill (AB) 1603 – which Schultz introduced earlier this year to prohibit PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) pesticides statewide – and recent findings regarding the prevalence of PFAS chemicals on California crops.
State testing has found that nearly 40% of nonorganic produce grown across California contains residues of at least one PFAS pesticide, according to Varun Subramaniam, science analyst with the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
“The most frequently detected pesticide on California-grown produce was fludioxonil, a PFAS pesticide. … [It] was detected on 90% of nectarine, plum and peach samples grown in the state,” said Subramaniam. Also, bifenthrin was found on about 20% of berries grown in the state.
“But why is this concerning?” continued Subramaniam. “PFAS exposure is linked to a range of health harms. … PFAS pesticides have largely been used in California with no limitations, and we’re only just beginning to understand the long-lasting effects of these pesticides.”
Research has documented that exposure to PFAS, even at low doses, can be linked to cancer, liver and kidney disease, decreased fertility, harm to immune and thyroid function and other effects. The European Union banned bifenthrin due to links to cancer and nervous system issues.
A separate EWG study indicates that the use of PFAS pesticides in California agriculture averages 2.5 million pounds per year across all 58 counties. According to data from state pesticide use, between 2018 and 2023, farmers applied 15 million pounds of these chemicals, with the highest concentrations utilized in Fresno, Imperial, Kern and San Joaquin counties.
“These forever chemicals can remain in our environment for a very, very long time, contaminating our soil and water while our communities live with these long-term impacts,” said Andrew Sandoval, a councilmember for the city of Salinas. “It’s time to put an end to the widespread use of these pesticides that do not break down and instead accumulate in our lakes, streams and rivers.”
AB 1603 would eliminate the use, sale and manufacturing of PFAS in pesticides statewide by 2035, and notify communities when they’re applied during the phase-out period. If passed, the legislation would make California the first state to prohibit the use of PFAS in agriculture.
“I am confident we’re going to get this thing to the governor’s desk – not that it’s going to be easy,” said Schultz, who represents the 44th District. He said it will take a lot of work, because they expect “heavy opposition” from the agricultural industry. But he has noticed a growing concern in the state legislature about PFAS and a desire to do more to protect consumer health.
If the legislation passes, Schultz anticipates eventual legal challenges, but said, “We would have a very good chance of prevailing in court.” He believes AB 1603 can save lives, adding that the support of lawmakers and community members can help protect kids and future generations.
“I’m not trying to upend or demoralize or make it harder than it has to be in an industry that is the cornerstone of California’s economy – our agricultural industry is a huge component of our economy,” said Schultz. “[But] we can do better – we can do better for our kids.”