05/03/2025

MSPCA’s SPAR Program: Advocating for Maryland’s Pest Control Industry

Charles Barton, ACE, CPFM

I wanted to take a moment to share my experience as State Policy Affairs Representative (SPAR) for the Maryland State Pest Control Association (MSPCA) and encourage others to consider getting involved in future MSPCA leadership roles.

As SPAR, I’ve had the opportunity to represent our industry by providing testimony on key legislation at the Maryland House and Senate. I’ve supported or opposed bills that directly impact our profession, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to play a role in shaping policies that affect our business and customers.

One of the best parts of this experience has been the support from NPMA and MSPCA. They help refine written and oral testimony, provide legal and industry insights, and connect me with expert witnesses to strengthen our arguments. It’s not just me standing up there—it’s a team effort with specialists from across the industry.

Beyond that, I’ve found the political environment and process fascinating. Watching how real discussions happen behind closed doors—once the cameras are off—has been eye-opening. In subcommittees, both sides negotiate, amend, and either push forward or shut down legislation. It’s a mini version of what happens in Washington, D.C., with Political Action Committees and grassroots efforts influencing the outcome. For example, I’ve seen how the PFAS bill keeps resurfacing year after year, despite previous failures.

I also attended NPMA Legislative Day in Washington, D.C., on March 9-11. This was a great opportunity to meet with lawmakers, discuss key issues affecting our industry, and see firsthand how federal advocacy works. If you haven't attended in the past, I encourage to to attend next March. 

If you’d like to learn more about my role as SPAR, you can check out my official announcement shared by PCT here.

Additionally, if you’d like to see our team in action, you can watch the recording of our testimony on HB 386 regarding PFAS. Fast forward to 3 hour 20 minute mark in the video to see our team’s testimony: Watch Here.

If you’ve ever wanted a front-row seat to the legislative process and a chance to make a real impact on our industry, I highly recommend getting involved with MSPCA. Kevin Poland is leading the charge this year as MSPCA's President, and there are plenty of future opportunities for leadership and volunteering within the organization.

If you’re interested or have any questions about what’s involved, I’d be happy to chat. It’s been an incredible experience, and I think many of you would find it just as rewarding. Send me a message through info@marylandpest.org, and the Executive Staff will connect us!

Charles Barton, ACE, CPFM
MSPCA State Policy Affairs Representative (SPAR)