Sec. 01.01.2003.49. Pesticide Advisory Committee [Rescinded COMAR 01.01.1993.21 and 01.01.1997.05]

A. Established. There is a Pesticide Advisory Committee within the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

B. Membership.

(1) The Committee shall consist of up to fifteen members, including:

(a) The Secretary of the Department of Agriculture or a designee;

(b) The Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources or a designee;

(c) The Secretary of the Department of the Environment or a designee;

(d) The Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene or a designee;

(e) One representative of the University System of Maryland with expertise in pesticides, designated by the Chancellor;

(f) One member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;

(g) One member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;

(h) One member of the Maryland Agricultural Commission, selected by the Secretary of Agriculture; and

(i) Seven members with subject matter interest or expertise named by the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture in consultation with the Governor's Office.

(2) Members named to the Advisory Committee under Section (B)(1)(h) and (i) shall serve at the pleasure of the Secretary of Agriculture.

(3) The Secretary shall designate a Chair from among the members of the Advisory Committee.

(4) Members of the Committee may not receive any compensation for their services, but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of duties, in accordance with the Standard State Travel Regulations, and as provided in the State budget.

C. Procedures.

(1) A majority of the Advisory Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business. The Committee may adopt such other procedures necessary to ensure the orderly transaction of business.

(2) The Department of Agriculture shall provide principal staff support to the Advisory Committee .

D. Scope. The Advisory Committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

(1) Make recommendations to the Secretary for changes in law or regulation to improve pesticide management in the State;

(2) Provide advice to the Secretary on issues concerning the registration, sales, use, storage and disposal of pesticides, the certification and training of pesticide applicators, the licensing of pest control businesses and the protection of farmworkers, endangered species and water resources;

(3) After having consulted with the Secretary, provide advice to other State agencies and local governments concerning their responsibilities in pesticide management and protection human health, natural resources and the environment; and

(4) Generally serve in an advisory capacity to the Secretary, Department Officials, and other State agencies on pesticide related matters.

E. Reports. The Secretary shall report annually to the Governor on the activities of the Committee.

Effective date: November 17, 2003 (30:25 Md. R. 1806)