Pursuant to Elections Code Section 9005, we have reviewed a proposed initiative related to the use of fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, and fumigants (A.G. File No. 19-0020, Amendment No. 1).

The measure intends to limit the use of fungicides, herbicides, insecticides and fumigants that do not conform with the National Organic Program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture. Specifically, the measure directs the Governor, with assistance from other elected and appointed officials, to enact protocols to annually reduce the usage of these products by agricultural, governmental, and residential applicators by three percent.

Pursuant to subsection (c) of Section 9005 of the Elections Code, we are informing you that, in our opinion, a reasonable estimate of the net fiscal impact of this proposed initiative measure cannot be prepared within 50 calendar days. Given the considerable uncertainties regarding how the measure would be implemented, how various economic sectors would respond over the longer term, and how the federal government might respond, the full scope of the changes this measure would put in place is highly uncertain.

As required by Section 9005, we are informing you that it is our opinion that the measure would result in a substantial net change in state and local finances.