Pesticides: The Senate adopts a regulated reintroduction of banned substances

Senators adopted a controversial provision late Monday night allowing the temporary reauthorization of certain insecticides that are banned in France. This initiative, included in the bill intended to address the agricultural crisis, contradicts the position advocated by the government.

The measure provides for the regulated use of two substances still authorized in several European countries, in the name of the competitiveness of French agricultural sectors. Its proponents believe that the current ban penalizes domestic producers compared to foreign competitors subject to less stringent regulations.

A political and environmental divide

The measure has sparked fierce opposition from left-wing parties and environmental organizations, who denounce it as a step backward in terms of biodiversity protection and public health. Several elected officials have condemned it as sending a negative signal in the midst of a climate and health crisis.

Already weakened, the government's text could suffer from these divisions during its subsequent review. The executive branch fears that a persistent disagreement on this point could jeopardize the overall adoption of the reform, especially as discussions between members of parliament and senators are expected in the coming weeks.