Fayetteville and Fort Bragg military families understand the importance of accountability and protecting our communities from harm. Yet, behind closed doors in Raleigh last week, lawmakers held a conference committee meeting — excluding farmers, scientists and community members, while inviting lobbyists from Big Ag and Big Pharma to push pesticide immunity.
This law would shield chemical companies from being held responsible when their products cause illness or environmental damage. This isn’t just a political issue; it’s a matter of health and justice.
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While largely championed by certain Republican representatives, pesticide immunity threatens all North Carolinians — Democrat or Republican — who value clean air, safe water and fair treatment. It’s a rare chance for voters across the aisle to unite and demand change.
Many in our region remember the harmful impacts of hog farm immunity laws pushed by the same lawmakers, including Rep. Brent Jackson and Rep. Jimmy Dixon, which favored corporations over families and left rural communities to suffer. Now, they’re back, trying to shield chemical giants and block accountability again.
Military families, local residents and voters statewide should stand together to oppose pesticide immunity, call for transparency, and hold elected officials accountable — regardless of party. Our health, environment, and future depend on it.
Tabitha Jordan lives in Smithfield.
This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fayetteville families: Join us in opposing pesticide exception | Letter