Victory For Wildlife: California Governor Signs Toughest Rat Poison Restrictions Into Law

Photo by: Mark Girardeau

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law tighter restrictions on rat poisons, expanding an existing moratorium to include all blood-thinning anticoagulant rodenticides. The Poison-Free Wildlife Act, or Assembly Bill 2552, establishes the strongest protections in the nation against these toxic substances, which inadvertently harm and kill wildlife.

“This important legislation shows why California is an environmental leader. We’re willing to fight for wildlife protections,” said J.P. Rose, Urban Wildlands policy director at the Center for Biological Diversity. “Birds, foxes, and pumas shouldn’t be sacrificed every time there’s a pest problem. It’s a relief to know the deadliest rat poisons will soon be off the market here.”

A.B. 2552 builds upon existing legislation that set restrictions on certain kinds of anticoagulant rodenticides. However, secondary poisoning is still widespread, with many imperiled species, including mountain lions, San Joaquin kit foxes, and northern spotted owls, needlessly harmed or killed. Wild animals that eat poisoned rodents can become poisoned themselves, suffering from internal bleeding, mange, or organ failure. Some are so sick they are unable to find food or avoid predators.

A recent California Department of Fish and Wildlife study found that 88% of raptors and 95% of mountain lions tested had been exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides.

“If we use these poisons, we poison one of the very best solutions to rodent control,” said Lisa Owens Viani, director of Raptors Are The Solution. “With the passage of A.B. 2552, our birds of prey will be much safer.”

A.B. 2552, sponsored by the Center, Raptors Are The Solution, and the Animal Legal Defense Fund, would restrict the sale and use of first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides such as chlorophacinone and warfarin. The moratorium will allow for rodenticide use to protect agriculture, water supplies, and public health.

“We are thrilled that California wildlife will be given a reprieve from another unnecessary threat to their already difficult coexistence with humans,” said Jennifer Hauge, senior legislative affairs manager at the Animal Legal Defense Fund. “May this new comprehensive moratorium on all anticoagulant rodenticides in the state lead the way for similar innovations across the country, where wildlife are also embattled.”

Banning rat poison is essential to protect wildlife and pets from harmful toxins. Implementing strict regulations not only safeguards ecosystems but also promotes a healthier environment for all living beings, ensuring the delicate balance of nature is maintained.

There are other effective ways to manage rodent infestations that don’t involve using toxic rat poisons that harm other animals. These include sanitation and a variety of humane traps. You can find humane traps HERE!