California’s Ban on Sale of Gas-Powered Lawnmowers, Leaf Blowers Off to Slow Start

California’s Ban on Sale of Gas-Powered Lawnmowers, Leaf Blowers Off to Slow Start
A worker (L) grabs a leaf blower as his co-worker takes a drink of water, while doing landscape work, in Perris, Calif., on June 16, 2016. Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images
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California’s latest effort to fight climate change by banning the sale of gas-powered garden equipment this year could hurt small landscape companies the most and cost homeowners more, according to landscape industry insiders.

The Golden State became the first in the nation to ban the small engines Jan. 1, hoping to reduce pollution by requiring residents and businesses to switch to battery-powered tools, but the ban is off to a slow start.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.
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