AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) -- The head of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association is criticizing the new law that eliminates what some consider redundant notifications of pesticide applications.

The association's Heather Spalding says the repeal signed Tuesday by Gov. Paul LePage is "an attack on people's right to know about pesticides."

The measure repealed a 2009 law requiring pesticide applicators to provide advance notice of aerial pesticide applications to those who listed their property on a public registry. Proponents say a law in effect since 1998 already provides Maine citizens with the right to be notified.

LePage said the existing law was less burdensome and did the same thing. He called the repeal "another example of good, commonsense regulatory reform."

Copyright 2011 The AP.