WASHINGTON — A leading expert at the National Cancer Institute has told Montgomery County Council member Roger Berliner that there just isn’t enough definitive information on how much of a cancer risk pesticides pose.

In a letter to Berliner, NCI’S Dr. Stephen Chanock said scientists don’t typically weigh in on regulatory issues or public policy decisions.

Council member George Leventhal has drafted a bill that would ban certain lawn chemicals for cosmetic use, citing health risks. Leventhal’s bill has generated heated debate.

On Monday, a council committee will be hearing from health and industry experts.

According to Berliner, a vote on the bill is not expected before June.

WTOP’s Kate Ryan contributed to this report.