SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) to protect children from the harmful effects of pesticides is on its way to the governor.

“Children are at higher risk for health effects from exposure to pesticides than adults because their nervous, immune, digestive and other systems are still developing, making them far less able to purge these pollutants compared to adults,” Morrison said.

The legislation would make it illegal to use restricted pesticides within 500 feet of a school during normal school hours when children are present. It comes following complaints that pesticides such as Dicamba and Chlorpyrifos can be harmful to both the environment and public health.

Half of the 2 million pesticide poisoning incidents each year involve children younger than six years old, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Children are at higher risk for health effects from exposure to pesticides than adults because their nervous, immune, digestive and other systems are still developing, making them far less able to purge these pollutants compared to adults.

“It’s clear that pesticide exposure is bad for children’s health,” Morrison said. “We can prevent that unintended exposure by moving this measure forward.”

Senate Bill 2245 has passed both chambers.