What is the primary regulatory body overseeing pesticide use in the United States?

The primary regulatory body overseeing pesticide use in the United States is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is responsible for evaluating and approving pesticide products before they can be sold and used, ensuring they do not pose unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. This involves a thorough assessment of the potential effects of pesticides on health, agricultural practices, and ecosystems.

The EPA also establishes guidelines for the safe application and usage of pesticides, implements risk assessments, and conducts research on the potential environmental and health impacts of various chemicals. Its authority stems from various laws, including the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), which mandates that all pesticides be registered and ensures that they meet strict safety standards.

While the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates pesticide residues in food products, and the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) oversees agricultural practices and programs, neither of these agencies holds the primary responsibility for the regulation of pesticide manufacturing and use. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on workplace safety and health regulations and does not specifically govern pesticide use, making the EPA the definitive authority in this area.