Which federal law governs pesticide regulations and usage in the United States?

The Federal Insecticide Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is the law that governs pesticide regulations and usage in the United States. Enacted in 1947 and significantly amended since then, FIFRA provides the legal framework for the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides. Under this law, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for evaluating the safety and efficacy of pesticides before they can be marketed.

FIFRA aims to protect human health and the environment by ensuring that pesticides are used according to specified guidelines and that their risks are managed effectively. This includes requirements for labeling and adherence to application rates and methods. As such, it ensures that pesticides can mitigate pest problems while minimizing potential hazards.

The other options, while related to environmental and chemical regulations, specifically address different areas of law. For instance, the Pesticide Control Act is a more localized legislative initiative and does not encompass the broad framework provided by FIFRA. The Environmental Protection Act is not a specific piece of legislation related to pesticides, and the Toxic Substances Control Act focuses on the regulation of chemical substances rather than specifically targeting pesticides. Therefore, FIFRA is the most relevant and comprehensive federal law in the context of pesticide regulation in the U