California Eyes Looser Rat Poison Rules Amid Wildlife Crisis

California is on the verge of relaxing regulations on some of the most toxic rodenticides, even as a recent state report highlights their devastating impact on wildlife. The new data from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reveals that dozens of species, including mountain lions and endangered condors, are being unintentionally poisoned. This comes as the administration of Governor Gavin Newsom proposes to roll back restrictions implemented by a 2024 law aimed at protecting wildlife from these dangerous chemicals.

Despite the evidence of harm, the Newsom administration is moving forward with plans that could permit the use of potent anticoagulant rodenticides in numerous new locations, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and even wildlife areas. These poisons cause a slow, internal hemorrhaging and can remain in the environment and food chain for extended periods. Environmental advocates express grave concern, pointing to a potential conflict of interest as the Department of Pesticide Regulation receives funding from pesticide sales, creating an incentive to keep products on the market.

Environmental groups and lawmakers who supported the original 2024 law are urging the governor to reconsider, citing flimsy justifications for the proposed rule changes. They emphasize that now is not the time to loosen restrictions, especially when the Poisons Free Wildlife Act aimed to curb such issues. The governor's decision will signal whether his administration prioritizes wildlife conservation or the interests of the pesticide industry.