Horseheads – New York Governor David Paterson signed a bill that will ban the use of pesticides on all school athletic fields and school playgrounds. Some parents said its about time.

The new law will go into affect in 180 days.  But schools have a full year to completely faze out all of their pesticides and start using other organic methods.

Studies have shown that the use of pesticides and herbicides on school fields and playgrounds can present a potential health risk to children.

Tony Stager, a health and safety hygienist said he’s not surprised the governor passed a law banning pesticides.

“I believe because there’s an increased awareness to different exposures to chemicals and pesticides and other toxic types of chemicals” said Tony Stager.

Like many schools throughout New York, Horseheads School District uses pesticides and herbicides, but with the new law, they’re working to address they issue and eliminate the use of all weed and feed products.