FR 2021-02651

The recent notice from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published in the Federal Register is an informative yet technical update on pesticide regulation. Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), the EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticides that contain already approved active ingredients, such as Cyflumetofen. The public is invited to submit comments about these applications until March 11, 2021, which implies that stakeholder input could influence the approval process. However, this announcement does not signal a final decision; rather, it is a call for engagement from impacted parties.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the document outlines opportunities for public comment, it lacks clarity on how these contributions will be evaluated by the EPA. Without clearly defined criteria for comment evaluation, the role of public input in the final decision-making process remains ambiguous. Furthermore, the technical jargon and use of industry-specific codes, like the NAICS codes, could act as barriers for understanding among the broader public. The detailed instructions on submitting comments also emphasize avoiding the inclusion of Confidential Business Information (CBI) but fail to explain what constitutes such information, which could lead to hesitance in participation or incorrect submissions.

Additionally, while contact information is provided, the specific purpose of reaching out to the listed contacts is not well articulated. This could cause confusion among individuals unsure about whether their queries or comments are appropriate or necessary.

Impact on the General Public

For the general public, the document signals an ongoing regulatory process that invites civic engagement, though it may appear complex due to its technical language. Those personally detached from the agricultural or pesticide industry might find it difficult to discern the implications of these registrations or the relevance of their comments.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders like agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and pesticide manufacturers, the notice provides both an opportunity and a challenge. They might view the registration of new uses for existing pesticide ingredients as beneficial, potentially offering more versatile pest control options and perhaps even economic advantages. However, any changes in regulation could also introduce new compliance requirements or modify existing practices.

Agricultural producers in particular may be directly affected by the approval of new uses for active ingredients like Cyflumetofen, as it could potentially introduce new options for pest management on crops such as hops. Engagement in the commenting process might be crucial for these stakeholders to ensure their perspectives and concerns are registered.

In summary, while the EPA's notice provides an opportunity for public participation in regulatory decision making, it also poses challenges related to language accessibility, clarity of the comment evaluation process, and guidance on submission procedures. This may result in varied impacts on those directly involved or affected by pesticide regulations.