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NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)August 20, 2026Hillsborough

Report links rising temperatures to increased pesticide risks for U.S. farmworkers

Rising temperatures are increasing the toxicity and absorption rates of pesticides for the nation's 2.4 million farmworkers, according to a report by the Union for Concerned Scientists. The report highlights that heat stress makes workers more vulnerable to chemical exposure while simultaneously increasing the likelihood of pesticide use as pests and weeds expand their ranges.

agricultureclimate changelabor rightspublic healthpesticidesoccupational safety
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)

Why It Matters

Farmworkers face increased health risks from pesticide exposure and heat-related illness, yet federal and state regulatory protections remain inconsistent or, in some states like Florida, prohibited at the local level.

Key Facts

  • There are 2.4 million farmworkers in the United States.
  • Heat increases the rate at which pesticides transform into more toxic compounds and increases skin absorption through sweating.
  • Protective PVC gloves can break down and become less effective at higher temperatures.
  • 1,042 heat-related worker deaths were documented between 1992 and 2022, averaging 34 deaths per year.
  • OSHA is currently working on a proposed federal heat standard, but has historically relied on the 1970 'general duty clause' to address workplace hazards.
  • California, Colorado, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington have implemented state-level heat protections.
  • In 2024, Florida passed legislation banning local governments from establishing heat protections for outdoor workers.
  • A Miami-Dade County proposal that was blocked would have required water and rest breaks when the heat index reached 95 degrees.
  • Chronic pesticide exposure is linked to cancer, depression, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and reproductive issues.

Who's Mentioned

personJeannie Economos“Pesticide safety and environmental health project coordinator at the Farmworker ”personOmanjana Goswami“Scientist at the Union for Concerned Scientists.”organizationUnion for Concerned Scientists“Advocacy group that authored the report on pesticide and heat risks.”organizationOccupational Safety and Health Administration“Federal agency responsible for workplace safety standards.”