The Healthy Schools Act came into effect on January 1, 2001. This law requires public schools to notify parents and school employees about pesticides being used in the school environment. It also encourages schools to use least toxic pest control practices and to establish and implement an integrated pest management program.
The Healthy Schools Act is found in the Education Code and, therefore, falls under the jurisdiction of the Office of Education. All other laws concerning pesticide use such as pesticide training, applications, and storage fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture. Our agency inspects employers to ensure that their employees are trained and that pesticides are being used correctly. Currently, our office is working with school districts in this county to ensure they are meeting the requirements relating to pesticide use and safety.