Pesticides

Overview
   Relevant Activities
   Role of Local Governments
U.S. EPA Resources
Other Resources 
   States
   Associations for Local Officials


OverviewPesticides

Over the last several decades, pesticide use has increased dramatically. As of 1991, Americans were using approximately one billion pounds of pesticides a year, twice what was used in 1964. 

Chemical pesticides have been used in the United States since the 1950's. When effectively applied, pesticides can kill and control pests including insects, fungi, bacteria and rodents. On the negative side, pesticides have harmful side effects. Many pesticides are known or suspected to be toxic to humans. They can cause neurologic damage, delayed development, cancer, reproductive dysfunction, and possibly impairment of the immune and endocrine systems. Concern about these effects was first expressed in the early 1960's and now has become widespread as knowledge has grown of the toxicity of pesticides.

EPA and the states (usually that state's agriculture department) register or license pesticides for use in the United States. EPA receives its authority to register pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).  Additionally, under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), EPA establishes tolerances (maximum legally permissible levels) for pesticide residues on food.

FIFRA provides for federal regulation of pesticide distribution, sale, and use. All pesticides distributed or sold in the United States must be registered by EPA. Before EPA may register a pesticide under FIFRA, the applicant must show, among other things, that using the pesticide according to specifications "will not generally cause unreasonable adverse effects on the environment."  

EPA registers pesticides and their use on specific pests and under specific circumstances. For example, "Pesticide A," registered for use on apples, may not be used legally on grapes, or an insecticide registered for "outdoor use" may not legally be used inside a building. In some circumstances, use of a registered pesticide may be restricted to pesticide applicators with special training.  

Individuals applying pesticides must do so in a manner not only consistent with federal laws, but also consistent with state laws and regulations, which differ from state to state. The agency with primary responsibility for regulating pesticide use differs in each state.

Relevant Activitiespesticides

Role of Local Governments

In the process of eliminating pests, facilities using pesticides risk exposing workers and visitors to toxic chemicals through the inhalation, ingestion, and absorption of pesticide residues. In addition, pesticides and herbicides can contaminate local water resources. When using pesticides local governments must comply with federal and state rules governing their use.

Most states have preempted local governments from regulating pesticides. Seven states, Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, Utah, and Vermont, do not preempt local governments from regulating pesticides. Local governments in Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, and Washington may petition the relevant state agency for permission to regulate pesticides.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Resources

Other Resources

States

Associations for Local Officials

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