03/28/2026

Maryland PMPs Bring the Case for Preemption to Capitol Hill

This March, a strong contingency of Maryland Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) joined peers from across the country in Washington, D.C. for NPMA’s Legislative Day—an annual event that blends advocacy, education, and industry networking. This year, Maryland’s delegation carried a clear and unified message: the urgent need for state pesticide preemption.

Maryland remains one of only six states in the country without pesticide preemption, leaving pest management companies to navigate a complex and often inconsistent web of local regulations. Requirements can vary significantly from one county, township, or municipality to another, creating operational challenges, increasing compliance costs, and introducing uncertainty for businesses trying to serve their customers effectively.

These pain points are not theoretical—they are a daily reality for many Maryland PMPs. During meetings with legislators, attendees shared firsthand accounts of how this fragmented regulatory landscape impacts their work, from scheduling and service delivery to training and documentation. Their message was clear: codifying state pesticide preemption would streamline operations, reduce confusion, and ensure that pesticide use decisions are grounded in sound, science-based assessments rather than a patchwork of local ordinances.

Advocating for preemption is ultimately about consistency and credibility. A unified framework at the state level allows for regulations that are informed by scientific expertise and aligned with national standards, rather than varying interpretations across jurisdictions. Maryland’s PMPs made a compelling case that this approach benefits not only the industry, but also consumers and public health.

Of course, Legislative Day is not solely about policy—it’s also about people. In addition to a full schedule of meetings and briefings, attendees had the opportunity to connect with colleagues in a more relaxed setting. The Maryland State Pest Control Association (MSPCA) and the Virginia Pest Management Association (VPMA) co-hosted a lively evening event at Equinox Restaurant in Washington, D.C., where members from both states gathered to share experiences, build relationships, and enjoy some well-earned camaraderie.

Events like these highlight the strength of our regional partnerships and the value of coming together as an industry. Whether discussing policy priorities or simply catching up with peers, these connections are an essential part of what makes Legislative Day so impactful.

If you’ve never attended NPMA Legislative Day, consider making plans to join next March. It’s a unique opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, stay informed on the issues shaping our industry, and build lasting professional relationships. From meaningful advocacy to memorable networking, Legislative Day offers an experience that benefits both you and the future of pest management.