June 4, 1999

The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule to establish tolerances for pesticide uses under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The rule addresses tolerances, or maximum residue limits, resulting from emergency pesticide uses.

Public comment is being sought on the procedures and criteria for EPA to establish pesticide tolerances. Prior to the Food Quality Protection Act, EPA conducted a health and safety review on the proposed use but did not set tolerances for emergency uses.

The agency now is required to establish time-limited tolerances that meet the FQPA safety requirements. Time-limited tolerances will be established after evaluating all potential exposures to the pesticide, including through diet, drinking water and other non-occupational exposures. The tolerance also must protect infants and children.

Written comments must be received by EPA on or before Aug. 2. The proposal can be viewed on EPA's web site at http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST.