My name is Nathan Bullock, President of the Tidewater Pest Control Association and owner of Talent Pest Control in Virginia Beach.

I’m writing in support of VPMA’s petition to create a new certification category for non–area-wide public health pest control. Right now, the existing Category 8 exam focuses heavily on government-style, area-wide mosquito control programs. That doesn’t reflect the day-to-day work done by most private pest control professionals who perform localized treatments on residential and commercial properties.

Because the test content doesn’t match the work being done, many good technicians either struggle to pass or avoid certification altogether. A new, more relevant category would fix that—helping more people get properly trained, stay compliant, and operate safely.

Other states have already made this update successfully. It’s time for Virginia to do the same and bring the rules in line with how the industry actually operates today.

Thank you for your consideration.

Nathan Bullock
President – Tidewater Pest Control Association
Owner – Talent Pest Control