(a) No person shall apply any neonicotinoid, as defined in section 22-61k , that is labeled for treating plants to any plant when such plant bears blossoms unless such plant is grown in a greenhouse that is inaccessible to pollinators and such application is consistent with best management strategies for growing annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs that will be safe for pollinators after they are purchased and planted. The prohibitions of this section shall not be construed to apply to any person engaged in academic research.
(b) The Commissioner of Agriculture, in conjunction with the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection, may enforce the provisions of this section pursuant to sections 22-4c and 22a-6 and establish a fine for the violation of this section.