Halosulfuron-methyl; Pesticide Tolerances, 53047-53051 [2013-20906]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 167 / Wednesday, August 28, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
Commodity
Parts per million
Vegetable, cucurbit, group
9 ......................................
Vegetable, foliage of legume, except soybean,
subgroup 7A ....................
Vegetable, fruiting, group
8–10 ................................
Vegetable, leafy, except
brassica, group 4 ............
0.5
25.0
1.4
29.0
Commodity
Parts per million
Vegetable, leaves of root
and tuber, group 2, except sugar beet ...............
Vegetable, legume, edible
podded, subgroup 6A .....
Vegetable, root, except
sugar beet, subgroup 1B
Vegetable, tuberous and
corm, subgroup 1C .........
16.0
0.5
Commodity
53047
Parts per million
Vegetables, foliage of legume, group 7 ...................
Wheat, grain .......................
Wheat, hay .........................
Wheat, straw .......................
25
0.02
6.0
8.5
*
*
*
*
(b) Section 18 emergency exemptions.
0.04 * * *
0.4
*
Commodity
Parts per
million
Expiration/revocation date
Endive, belgium .......................................................................................................................................................
11.0
12/31/13
*
*
*
*
the visitor instructions and additional
information about the docket available
at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois
Rossi, Registration Division (7505P),
Office of Pesticide Programs,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; telephone number:
(703) 305–7090; email address:
RDFRNotice@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
*
[FR Doc. 2013–20921 Filed 8–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2012–0586; FRL–9393–8]
Halosulfuron-methyl; Pesticide
Tolerances
I. General Information
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This regulation establishes
tolerances for residues of halosulfuronmethyl in or on artichoke and caneberry
subgroup 13–07A. The Interregional
Research Project Number 4 (IR–4)
requested these tolerances under the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(FFDCA).
SUMMARY:
This regulation is effective
August 28, 2013. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received
on or before October 28, 2013, and must
be filed in accordance with the
instructions provided in 40 CFR part
178 (see also Unit I.C. of the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2012–0586, is
available at https://www.regulations.gov
or at the Office of Pesticide Programs
Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)
in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West
Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave.
NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001. The
Public Reading Room is open from 8:30
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The
telephone number for the Public
Reading Room is (202) 566–1744, and
the telephone number for the OPP
Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review
wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES
DATES:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:52 Aug 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you are an agricultural
producer, food manufacturer, or
pesticide manufacturer. The following
list of North American Industrial
Classification System (NAICS) codes is
not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
provides a guide to help readers
determine whether this document
applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to
other related information?
You may access a frequently updated
electronic version of EPA’s tolerance
regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through
the Government Printing Office’s e-CFR
site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/
40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing
request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
PO 00000
Frm 00031
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
or request a hearing on this regulation
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure
proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2012–0586 in the subject line on
the first page of your submission. All
objections and requests for a hearing
must be in writing, and must be
received by the Hearing Clerk on or
before October 28, 2013. Addresses for
mail and hand delivery of objections
and hearing requests are provided in 40
CFR 178.25(b).
In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk
as described in 40 CFR part 178, please
submit a copy of the filing (excluding
any Confidential Business Information
(CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket.
Information not marked confidential
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be
disclosed publicly by EPA without prior
notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your
objection or hearing request, identified
by docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–
2012–0586, by one of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
instructions for submitting comments.
Do not submit electronically any
information you consider to be CBI or
other information whose disclosure is
restricted by statute.
• Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental
Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/
DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave.
NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001.
• Hand Delivery: To make special
arrangements for hand delivery or
delivery of boxed information, please
follow the instructions at https://
www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.
Additional instructions on commenting
or visiting the docket, along with more
information about dockets generally, is
available at https://www.epa.gov/
dockets.
E:\FR\FM\28AUR1.SGM
28AUR1
53048
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 167 / Wednesday, August 28, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
II. Summary of Petitioned-For
Tolerance
and risks associated with halosulfuronmethyl follows.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/
Levels of Concern
In the Federal Register of September
28, 2012 (77 FR 59578) (FRL–9364–6),
EPA issued a document pursuant to
FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21 U.S.C.
346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a
pesticide petition (PP 2E8050) by IR–4,
IR–4 Project Headquarters, 500 College
Rd. East, Suite 201 W., Princeton, NJ
08540. The petition requested that 40
CFR 180.479 be amended by
establishing tolerances for residues of
the herbicide halosulfuron-methyl,
methyl 5-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2pyrimidinyl)amino]
carbonylaminosulfonyl]-3-chloro-1methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate,
including its metabolites and
degradates, in or on artichoke and
caneberry subgroup 13–07A at 0.05
parts per million (ppm). That document
referenced a summary of the petition
prepared by Gowan Company, the
registrant, which is available in the
docket, https://www.regulations.gov.
There were no comments received in
response to the notice of filing.
A. Toxicological Profile
Once a pesticide’s toxicological
profile is determined, EPA identifies
toxicological points of departure (POD)
and levels of concern to use in
evaluating the risk posed by human
exposure to the pesticide. For hazards
that have a threshold below which there
is no appreciable risk, the toxicological
POD is used as the basis for derivation
of reference values for risk assessment.
PODs are developed based on a careful
analysis of the doses in each
toxicological study to determine the
dose at which no adverse effects are
observed (the NOAEL) and the lowest
dose at which adverse effects of concern
are identified (the LOAEL). Uncertainty/
safety factors are used in conjunction
with the POD to calculate a safe
exposure level—generally referred to as
a population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a
reference dose (RfD)—and a safe margin
of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold
risks, the Agency assumes that any
amount of exposure will lead to some
degree of risk. Thus, the Agency
estimates risk in terms of the probability
of an occurrence of the adverse effect
expected in a lifetime. For more
information on the general principles
EPA uses in risk characterization and a
complete description of the risk
assessment process, see https://
www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/
riskassess.htm.
A summary of the toxicological
endpoints for halosulfuron-methyl used
for human risk assessment is discussed
in Unit III. of the final rule published in
the Federal Register of December 3,
2012 (77 FR 71555) (FRL–9370–6).
wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES
III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Section
408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure
of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to infants and children from
aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue. . . .’’
Consistent with FFDCA section
408(b)(2)(D), and the factors specified in
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has
reviewed the available scientific data
and other relevant information in
support of this action. EPA has
sufficient data to assess the hazards of
and to make a determination on
aggregate exposure for halosulfuronmethyl including exposure resulting
from the tolerances established by this
action. EPA’s assessment of exposures
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:52 Aug 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity data and considered their
validity, completeness, and reliability as
well as the relationship of the results of
the studies to human risk. EPA has also
considered available information
concerning the variability of the
sensitivities of major identifiable
subgroups of consumers, including
infants and children. With repeated
dosing, halosulfuron-methyl produces
non-specific effects, which are
frequently characterized by reduced
body weight/body weight gain in the
test animals. In the prenatal
developmental toxicity study in rats,
increases in resorptions, soft tissue
(dilation of the lateral ventricles) and
skeletal variations, and decreases in
body weights were seen in the fetuses
compared to clinical signs and
decreases in body weights and food
consumption in the maternal animals at
a similar dose level. In the rabbit
developmental toxicity study, increases
in resorptions and post-implantation
losses and decrease in mean litter size
were seen in the presence of decreases
in body weight and food consumption
in maternal animals were observed.
However, a clear no observed adverse
effect level (NOAEL) for these effects
was established in both rat and rabbit
developmental toxicity studies.
Halosulfuron-methyl did not produce
reproductive effects. No neurotoxic
effects were observed in the acute or
subchronic neurotoxicity studies.
Halosulfuron-methyl is classified as
‘‘not likely to be carcinogenic to
humans.’’ It is negative for mutagenicity
in a battery of genotoxicity studies.
Although there is no immunotoxicity
study for halosulfuron-methyl, the
available data indicate that
halosulfuron-methyl is unlikely to be an
immuno toxicant. EPA is currently
reviewing a waiver request for these
data.
Specific information on the studies
received and the nature of the adverse
effects caused by halosulfuron-methyl
as well as the NOAEL and Lowest
Observed-Adversed-Effective-Level
(LOAEL) from the toxicity studies can
be found at https://www.regulations.gov
in document: ‘‘Halosulfuron-Methyl:
Human Health Risk Assessment for
Proposed New Uses on Artichoke and
Caneberry (Crop subgroup 13–07A),’’
dated March 25, 2013, pp. 30–34, docket
ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–2012–0586–
0004.
PO 00000
Frm 00032
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to halosulfuron-methyl, EPA
considered exposure under the
petitioned-for tolerances as well as all
existing halosulfuron-methyl tolerances
in 40 CFR 180.479. EPA assessed dietary
exposures from halosulfuron-methyl in
food as follows:
i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute
dietary exposure and risk assessments
are performed for a food-use pesticide,
if a toxicological study has indicated the
possibility of an effect of concern
occurring as a result of a 1-day or single
exposure. There was no indication of an
adverse effect attributable to a single
dose for the general U.S. population
including infants and children.
Therefore, an acute dietary assessment
was not conducted for the U.S. general
population. However, such effects were
identified for females 13–49 years old
E:\FR\FM\28AUR1.SGM
28AUR1
wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 167 / Wednesday, August 28, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
for halosulfuron-methyl. In estimating
acute dietary exposure, EPA used the
Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model—
Food Consumption Intake Database
(DEEM–FCID, ver. 3.16), which
incorporates consumption information
from the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) National Health and
Nutrition Examination Survey, What We
Eat in America (NHANES/WWEIA);
2003–2008). As to residue levels in
food, EPA conducted an unrefined
assessment that assumed 100 percent
crop treated (PCT), dietary exposure
evaluation model (DEEM) 7.81 default
processing factors, and tolerance-level
residues for all existing and proposed
uses.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting
the chronic dietary exposure assessment
EPA used the DEEM–FCID, ver. 3.16
which incorporates consumption
information from the USDA NHANES/
WWEIA; 2003–2008. As to residue
levels in food, EPA conducted an
unrefined assessment that assumed 100
PCT, DEEM 7.81 default processing
factors, and tolerance-level residues for
all existing and proposed uses.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data
summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has
concluded that halosulfuron methyl
does not pose a cancer risk to humans.
Therefore, a dietary exposure
assessment for the purpose of assessing
cancer risk is unnecessary.
iv. Anticipated residue and PCT
information. EPA did not use
anticipated residue or PCT information
in the dietary assessment for
halosulfuron-methyl. Tolerance level
residues and100 PCT were assumed for
all food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. The Agency used screening level
water exposure models in the dietary
exposure analysis and risk assessment
for halosulfuron-methyl in drinking
water. These simulation models take
into account data on the physical,
chemical, and fate/transport
characteristics of halosulfuron-methyl.
Further information regarding EPA
drinking water models used in pesticide
exposure assessment can be found at
https://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/models/
water/index.htm.
Based on the Tier 1 Rice Model v.1.0
and Screening Concentration in Ground
Water (SCI–GROW) models,
respectively, the estimated drinking
water concentrations (EDWCs) of
halosulfuron-methyl for acute exposures
are estimated to be 59.2 parts per billion
(ppb) for surface water and 0.065 ppb
for ground water.
For chronic exposures for non-cancer
assessments EDWC’s are estimated to be
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:52 Aug 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
59.2 ppb for surface water and 0.065
ppb for ground water.
Modeled estimates of drinking water
concentrations were directly entered
into the dietary exposure model. For
both the acute and chronic dietary risk
assessments, the water concentration
value of 59.2 ppb was used to assess the
contribution to drinking water.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The
term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in
this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure
(e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,
indoor pest control, termiticides, and
flea and tick control on pets).
Halosulfuron-methyl is currently
registered for the following uses that
could result in residential exposures:
Residential turf use. EPA assessed
residential exposure using the following
assumptions: Residential handler shortterm (1–30 days) dermal and inhalation
exposures, and residential postapplication short-term dermal and
incidental oral (hand-to-mouth, objectto-mouth, and soil ingestion) exposures
are expected from activities associated
with the existing uses. Intermediateterm exposures are not likely because of
the intermittent nature of applications
by homeowners.
Further information regarding EPA
standard assumptions and generic
inputs for residential exposures may be
found at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/
trac/science/trac6a05.pdf.
4. Cumulative effects from substances
with a common mechanism of toxicity.
Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA
requires that, when considering whether
to establish, modify, or revoke a
tolerance, the Agency consider
‘‘available information’’ concerning the
cumulative effects of a particular
pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other
substances that have a common
mechanism of toxicity.’’
EPA has not found halosulfuronmethyl to share a common mechanism
of toxicity with any other substances,
and halosulfuron-methyl does not
appear to produce a toxic metabolite
produced by other substances. For the
purposes of this tolerance action,
therefore, EPA has assumed that
halosulfuron-methyl does not have a
common mechanism of toxicity with
other substances. For information
regarding EPA’s efforts to determine
which chemicals have a common
mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate
the cumulative effects of such
chemicals, see EPA’s Web site at
https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/
cumulative.
PO 00000
Frm 00033
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
53049
D. Safety Factor for Infants and
Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply
an additional tenfold (10X) margin of
safety for infants and children in the
case of threshold effects to account for
prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the
completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines
based on reliable data that a different
margin of safety will be safe for infants
and children. This additional margin of
safety is commonly referred to as the
Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA)
Safety Factor (SF). In applying this
provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable
data available to EPA support the choice
of a different factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.
The prenatal and postnatal toxicity
database for halosulfuron-methyl
includes rat and rabbit developmental
toxicity studies and a 2-generation
reproduction toxicity study in rats. As
discussed in Unit III.A., there was no
quantitative evidence for increased
susceptibility following prenatal and/or
postnatal exposure. However, there was
qualitative evidence for increased
susceptibility of fetuses in the rat and
rabbit developmental studies. In the rat
study, increases in resorptions, soft
tissue (dilation of the lateral ventricles)
and skeletal variations, and decreases in
body weights were seen in the fetuses
compared to clinical signs and
decreases in body weights and food
consumption in the maternal animals.
In the rabbit study, increases in
resorptions and post-implantation losses
and decrease in mean litter size was
seen in the presence of decreases in
body weight and food consumption in
maternal animals. Thus, in both species,
the developmental effect was
considered to be qualitatively more
severe than maternal effects (i.e.,
qualitative evidence for susceptibility).
Nevertheless, the degree of concern for
these effects is low, and there are no
residual uncertainties for prenatal
toxicity in both rats and rabbits for the
following reasons:
i. In both studies, there are clear
NOAELs/LOAELs for developmental
and maternal toxicities.
ii. Developmental effects were seen in
the presence of maternal toxicity.
iii. The effects were only seen at the
high dose.
iv. In rats, developmental effects were
seen at a dose which approached the
limit-dose.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined
that reliable data show the safety of
E:\FR\FM\28AUR1.SGM
28AUR1
53050
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 167 / Wednesday, August 28, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES
infants and children would be
adequately protected if the FQPA SF
were reduced to 1X. That decision is
based on the following findings:
i. The toxicity database for
halosulfuron-methyl is complete except
for an immunotoxicity study. In the
absence of specific immunotoxicity
studies, EPA has evaluated the available
halosulfuron-methyl toxicity data to
determine whether an additional
uncertainty factor is needed to account
or potential immunotoxicity. The
toxicology database for halosulfuronmethyl does not show any evidence of
biologically relevant effects on the
immune system following exposure to
this chemical. The overall weight-ofevidence suggests that this chemical
does not directly target the immune
system. Based on these considerations,
EPA does not believe that conducting
immunotoxicity testing will result in a
point of departure lower than those
already selected for halosulfuron-methyl
risk assessment, and an additional
database uncertainty factor is not
needed to account for the lack of this
study.
ii. There is no indication that
halosulfuron-methyl is a neurotoxic
chemical and there is no need for a
developmental neurotoxicity study or
additional uncertainty factors to account
for neurotoxicity.
iii. Although there is qualitative
evidence of increased susceptibility in
the prenatal developmental studies in
rats and rabbits, as discussed in Unit
III.D.2., there are no residual
uncertainties after establishing toxicity
endpoints and the degree of concern for
pre- and/or postnatal toxicity is low.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties
identified in the exposure databases.
The dietary food exposure assessments
were performed based on 100 PCT and
tolerance-level residues. EPA made
conservative (protective) assumptions in
the ground and surface water modeling
used to assess exposure to halosulfuronmethyl in drinking water. EPA used
similarly conservative assumptions to
assess postapplication exposure of
children as well as incidental oral
exposure of toddlers. These assessments
will not underestimate the exposure and
risks posed by halosulfuron-methyl.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
EPA determines whether acute and
chronic dietary pesticide exposures are
safe by comparing aggregate exposure
estimates to the acute population
adjusted dose (aPAD) and chronic
population adjusted dose (cPAD). For
linear cancer risks, EPA calculates the
lifetime probability of acquiring cancer
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:52 Aug 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
given the estimated aggregate exposure.
Short-term, intermediate-term, and
chronic-term risks are evaluated by
comparing the estimated aggregate food,
water, and residential exposure to the
appropriate PODs to ensure that an
adequate MOE exists.
1. Acute risk. Using the exposure
assumptions discussed in this unit for
acute exposure, the acute dietary
exposure from food and water to
halosulfuron-methyl will occupy <1%
of the aPAD for females 13–49 years, the
population group receiving the greatest
exposure.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure
assumptions described in this unit for
chronic exposure, EPA has concluded
that chronic exposure to halosulfuronmethyl from food and water will utilize
5.5% of the cPAD for all children 1–2
years old, the population group
receiving the greatest exposure. Chronic
residential exposure to residues of
halosulfuron-methyl is not expected.
Therefore, the chronic aggregate risk
would be equivalent to the chronic
dietary exposure estimate.
3. Short-term risk. Short-term
aggregate exposure takes into account
short-term residential exposure plus
chronic exposure to food and water
(considered to be a background
exposure level). Halosulfuron-methyl is
currently registered for uses that could
result in short-term residential
exposure, and the Agency has
determined that it is appropriate to
aggregate chronic exposure through food
and water with short-term residential
exposures to halosulfuron-methyl.
Using the exposure assumptions
described in this unit for short-term
exposures, EPA has concluded the
combined short-term food, water, and
residential exposures result in aggregate
MOEs of 1,800 for adults and 840 for
children. Residential exposure for use in
the aggregate assessment of adults and
children 1 to <2 years old reflects the
combined post-application dermal plus
hand-to-mouth exposures from turf
treated with liquid applications of
halosulfuron-methyl. Because EPA’s
level of concern for halosulfuron-methyl
is a MOE of 100 or below, these
estimates of aggregate risk do not exceed
the Agency’s level of concern.
4. Intermediate-term risk.
Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term
residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered
to be a background exposure level). An
intermediate-term adverse effect was
identified; however, halosulfuronmethyl is not registered for any use
patterns that would result in
intermediate-term residential exposure
PO 00000
Frm 00034
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
pathway. Because there is no
intermediate-term residential exposure,
the intermediate-term aggregate risk
would be equivalent to the chronic
dietary exposure estimate. Chronic
dietary exposure has already been
assessed under the appropriately
protective cPAD (which is at least as
protective as the equivalent POD value
used to assess intermediate-term risk),
no further assessment of intermediateterm risk is necessary.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two
adequate rodent carcinogenicity studies,
halosulfuron-methyl is not expected to
pose a cancer risk to humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on
these risk assessments, EPA concludes
that there is a reasonable certainty that
no harm will result to the general
population, or to infants and children
from aggregate exposure to
halosulfuron-methyl residues.
IV. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An adequate analytical method is
available for enforcement of tolerances
for halosulfuron-methyl residues in
plants. The gas chromatography (GC)
method quantifies halosulfuron-methyl
as its rearrangement ester (RRE; 1-Hpyrazole-4-carboxylic acid, 3-chloro-5[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)amino]1-methyl, methyl ester) using
thermionic-specific detection (TSD,
nitrogen specific). For confirmation, the
RRE can be determined by gas
chromatography mass spectroscopic
detection (GC/MS).
The method may be requested from:
Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
Environmental Science Center, 701
Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
telephone number: (410) 305–2905;
email address: residuemethods@
epa.gov.
B. International Residue Limits
In making its tolerance decisions, EPA
seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with
international standards whenever
possible, consistent with U.S. food
safety standards and agricultural
practices. EPA considers the
international maximum residue limits
(MRLs) established by the Codex
Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as
required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).
The Codex Alimentarius is a joint
United Nations Food and Agriculture
Organization/World Health
Organization food standards program,
and it is recognized as an international
food safety standards-setting
organization in trade agreements to
E:\FR\FM\28AUR1.SGM
28AUR1
53051
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 167 / Wednesday, August 28, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
which the United States is a party. EPA
may establish a tolerance that is
different from a Codex MRL; however,
FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that
EPA explain the reasons for departing
from the Codex level. There are no
Codex MRLs established for residues of
halosulfuron-methyl in/on any
commodity.
wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES
V. Conclusion
Therefore, tolerances are established
for residues of the herbicide
halosulfuron-methyl, methyl 5-[(4,6dimethoxy-2-pyrimidiny)amino]
carbonylaminosulfonyl]-3-chloro-1methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate,
including its metabolites and
degradates, in or on the commodities
artichoke at 0.05 ppm and caneberry
subgroup 13–07A at 0.05 ppm.
VI. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This final rule establishes tolerances
under FFDCA section 408(d) in
response to a petition submitted to the
Agency. The Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has exempted these types
of actions from review under Executive
Order 12866, entitled ‘‘Regulatory
Planning and Review’’ (58 FR 51735,
October 4, 1993). Because this final rule
has been exempted from review under
Executive Order 12866, this final rule is
not subject to Executive Order 13211,
entitled ‘‘Actions Concerning
Regulations That Significantly Affect
Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use’’ (66
FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive
Order 13045, entitled ‘‘Protection of
Children from Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks’’ (62 FR 19885,
April 23, 1997). This final rule does not
contain any information collections
subject to OMB approval under the
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) (44
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does it require
any special considerations under
Executive Order 12898, entitled
‘‘Federal Actions to Address
Environmental Justice in Minority
Populations and Low-Income
Populations’’ (59 FR 7629, February 16,
1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that
are established on the basis of a petition
under FFDCA section 408(d), such as
the tolerance in this final rule, do not
require the issuance of a proposed rule,
the requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq.), do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates
growers, food processors, food handlers,
and food retailers, not States or tribes,
nor does this action alter the
relationships or distribution of power
and responsibilities established by
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:52 Aug 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
Congress in the preemption provisions
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such,
the Agency has determined that this
action will not have a substantial direct
effect on States or tribal governments,
on the relationship between the national
government and the States or tribal
governments, or on the distribution of
power and responsibilities among the
various levels of government or between
the Federal Government and Indian
tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined
that Executive Order 13132, entitled
‘‘Federalism’’ (64 FR 43255, August 10,
1999) and Executive Order 13175,
entitled ‘‘Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments’’ (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply
to this final rule. In addition, this final
rule does not impose any enforceable
duty or contain any unfunded mandate
as described under Title II of the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
(UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
This action does not involve any
technical standards that would require
Agency consideration of voluntary
consensus standards pursuant to section
12(d) of the National Technology
Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995
(NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
VII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review
Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA will
submit a report containing this rule and
other required information to the U.S.
Senate, the U.S. House of
Representatives, and the Comptroller
General of the United States prior to
publication of the rule in the Federal
Register. This action is not a ‘‘major
rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Dated: August 14, 2013.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of
Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is
amended as follows:
PART 180—[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 180
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
2. In § 180.479, add alphabetically the
following commodities to the table in
paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows:
■
PO 00000
Frm 00035
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
§ 180.479 Halosulfuron-methyl; tolerances
for residues.
(a) * * *
(2) * * *
Parts per
million
Commodity
*
*
*
*
Artichoke .....................................
*
0.05
*
*
*
*
Caneberry subgroup 13–07A .....
*
0.05
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2013–20906 Filed 8–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2011–1018; FRL–9396–8]
Ethyl-2E,4Z-Decadienoate (Pear Ester);
Exemption From the Requirement of a
Tolerance
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This regulation establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of the biochemical
pesticide ethyl-2E,4Z-decadienoate
(pear ester) in or on all food
commodities. This regulation eliminates
the need to establish a maximum
permissible level for residues of ethyl2E,4Z-decadienoate (pear ester).
DATES: This regulation is effective
August 28, 2013. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received
on or before October 28, 2013, and must
be filed in accordance with the
instructions provided in 40 CFR part
178 (see also Unit I.C. of the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2011–1018, is
available at https://www.regulations.gov
or at the Office of Pesticide Programs
Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)
in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West
Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave.
NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001. The
Public Reading Room is open from 8:30
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The
telephone number for the Public
Reading Room is (202) 566–1744, and
the telephone number for the OPP
Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\28AUR1.SGM
28AUR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 167 (Wednesday, August 28, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53047-53051]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-20906]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0586; FRL-9393-8]
Halosulfuron-methyl; Pesticide Tolerances
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of
halosulfuron-methyl in or on artichoke and caneberry subgroup 13-07A.
The Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these
tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
DATES: This regulation is effective August 28, 2013. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received on or before October 28, 2013,
and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40
CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: The docket for this action, identified by docket
identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0586, is available at https://www.regulations.gov or at the Office of Pesticide Programs Regulatory
Public Docket (OPP Docket) in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution
Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. The Public Reading Room is open
from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The telephone number for the Public Reading Room is (202)
566-1744, and the telephone number for the OPP Docket is (703) 305-
5805. Please review the visitor instructions and additional information
about the docket available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois Rossi, Registration Division
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency,
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone
number: (703) 305-7090; email address: RDFRNotice@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an
agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer.
The following list of North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a
guide to help readers determine whether this document applies to them.
Potentially affected entities may include:
Crop production (NAICS code 111).
Animal production (NAICS code 112).
Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311).
Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to other related information?
You may access a frequently updated electronic version of EPA's
tolerance regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through the Government
Printing Office's e-CFR site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation and may also request a
hearing on those objections. You must file your objection or request a
hearing on this regulation in accordance with the instructions provided
in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must identify
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0586 in the subject line on the first
page of your submission. All objections and requests for a hearing must
be in writing, and must be received by the Hearing Clerk on or before
October 28, 2013. Addresses for mail and hand delivery of objections
and hearing requests are provided in 40 CFR 178.25(b).
In addition to filing an objection or hearing request with the
Hearing Clerk as described in 40 CFR part 178, please submit a copy of
the filing (excluding any Confidential Business Information (CBI)) for
inclusion in the public docket. Information not marked confidential
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be disclosed publicly by EPA without
prior notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your objection or hearing
request, identified by docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0586, by one of
the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov.
Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Do not submit
electronically any information you consider to be CBI or other
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental Protection Agency Docket
Center (EPA/DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC
20460-0001.
Hand Delivery: To make special arrangements for hand
delivery or delivery of boxed information, please follow the
instructions at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html. Additional
instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along with more
information about dockets generally, is available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
[[Page 53048]]
II. Summary of Petitioned-For Tolerance
In the Federal Register of September 28, 2012 (77 FR 59578) (FRL-
9364-6), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21
U.S.C. 346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP
2E8050) by IR-4, IR-4 Project Headquarters, 500 College Rd. East, Suite
201 W., Princeton, NJ 08540. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.479
be amended by establishing tolerances for residues of the herbicide
halosulfuron-methyl, methyl 5-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)amino]
carbonylaminosulfonyl]-3-chloro-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate,
including its metabolites and degradates, in or on artichoke and
caneberry subgroup 13-07A at 0.05 parts per million (ppm). That
document referenced a summary of the petition prepared by Gowan
Company, the registrant, which is available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. There were no comments received in response to the
notice of filing.
III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a
tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a
food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure
to the pesticide chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary
exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable
information.'' This includes exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include occupational exposure.
Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to give special
consideration to exposure of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure that there
is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to infants and
children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue. . .
.''
Consistent with FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), and the factors
specified in FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available
scientific data and other relevant information in support of this
action. EPA has sufficient data to assess the hazards of and to make a
determination on aggregate exposure for halosulfuron-methyl including
exposure resulting from the tolerances established by this action.
EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated with halosulfuron-
methyl follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered their
validity, completeness, and reliability as well as the relationship of
the results of the studies to human risk. EPA has also considered
available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities
of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and
children. With repeated dosing, halosulfuron-methyl produces non-
specific effects, which are frequently characterized by reduced body
weight/body weight gain in the test animals. In the prenatal
developmental toxicity study in rats, increases in resorptions, soft
tissue (dilation of the lateral ventricles) and skeletal variations,
and decreases in body weights were seen in the fetuses compared to
clinical signs and decreases in body weights and food consumption in
the maternal animals at a similar dose level. In the rabbit
developmental toxicity study, increases in resorptions and post-
implantation losses and decrease in mean litter size were seen in the
presence of decreases in body weight and food consumption in maternal
animals were observed. However, a clear no observed adverse effect
level (NOAEL) for these effects was established in both rat and rabbit
developmental toxicity studies. Halosulfuron-methyl did not produce
reproductive effects. No neurotoxic effects were observed in the acute
or subchronic neurotoxicity studies.
Halosulfuron-methyl is classified as ``not likely to be
carcinogenic to humans.'' It is negative for mutagenicity in a battery
of genotoxicity studies.
Although there is no immunotoxicity study for halosulfuron-methyl,
the available data indicate that halosulfuron-methyl is unlikely to be
an immuno toxicant. EPA is currently reviewing a waiver request for
these data.
Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the
adverse effects caused by halosulfuron-methyl as well as the NOAEL and
Lowest Observed-Adversed-Effective-Level (LOAEL) from the toxicity
studies can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in document:
``Halosulfuron-Methyl: Human Health Risk Assessment for Proposed New
Uses on Artichoke and Caneberry (Crop subgroup 13-07A),'' dated March
25, 2013, pp. 30-34, docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0586-0004.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern
Once a pesticide's toxicological profile is determined, EPA
identifies toxicological points of departure (POD) and levels of
concern to use in evaluating the risk posed by human exposure to the
pesticide. For hazards that have a threshold below which there is no
appreciable risk, the toxicological POD is used as the basis for
derivation of reference values for risk assessment. PODs are developed
based on a careful analysis of the doses in each toxicological study to
determine the dose at which no adverse effects are observed (the NOAEL)
and the lowest dose at which adverse effects of concern are identified
(the LOAEL). Uncertainty/safety factors are used in conjunction with
the POD to calculate a safe exposure level--generally referred to as a
population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a reference dose (RfD)--and a safe
margin of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold risks, the Agency assumes
that any amount of exposure will lead to some degree of risk. Thus, the
Agency estimates risk in terms of the probability of an occurrence of
the adverse effect expected in a lifetime. For more information on the
general principles EPA uses in risk characterization and a complete
description of the risk assessment process, see https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm.
A summary of the toxicological endpoints for halosulfuron-methyl
used for human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III. of the final
rule published in the Federal Register of December 3, 2012 (77 FR
71555) (FRL-9370-6).
C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to halosulfuron-methyl, EPA considered exposure under the
petitioned-for tolerances as well as all existing halosulfuron-methyl
tolerances in 40 CFR 180.479. EPA assessed dietary exposures from
halosulfuron-methyl in food as follows:
i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute dietary exposure and risk
assessments are performed for a food-use pesticide, if a toxicological
study has indicated the possibility of an effect of concern occurring
as a result of a 1-day or single exposure. There was no indication of
an adverse effect attributable to a single dose for the general U.S.
population including infants and children. Therefore, an acute dietary
assessment was not conducted for the U.S. general population. However,
such effects were identified for females 13-49 years old
[[Page 53049]]
for halosulfuron-methyl. In estimating acute dietary exposure, EPA used
the Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model--Food Consumption Intake Database
(DEEM-FCID, ver. 3.16), which incorporates consumption information from
the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Health and
Nutrition Examination Survey, What We Eat in America (NHANES/WWEIA);
2003-2008). As to residue levels in food, EPA conducted an unrefined
assessment that assumed 100 percent crop treated (PCT), dietary
exposure evaluation model (DEEM) 7.81 default processing factors, and
tolerance-level residues for all existing and proposed uses.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure
assessment EPA used the DEEM-FCID, ver. 3.16 which incorporates
consumption information from the USDA NHANES/WWEIA; 2003-2008. As to
residue levels in food, EPA conducted an unrefined assessment that
assumed 100 PCT, DEEM 7.81 default processing factors, and tolerance-
level residues for all existing and proposed uses.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has
concluded that halosulfuron methyl does not pose a cancer risk to
humans. Therefore, a dietary exposure assessment for the purpose of
assessing cancer risk is unnecessary.
iv. Anticipated residue and PCT information. EPA did not use
anticipated residue or PCT information in the dietary assessment for
halosulfuron-methyl. Tolerance level residues and100 PCT were assumed
for all food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening
level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk
assessment for halosulfuron-methyl in drinking water. These simulation
models take into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/
transport characteristics of halosulfuron-methyl. Further information
regarding EPA drinking water models used in pesticide exposure
assessment can be found at https://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/models/water/index.htm.
Based on the Tier 1 Rice Model v.1.0 and Screening Concentration in
Ground Water (SCI-GROW) models, respectively, the estimated drinking
water concentrations (EDWCs) of halosulfuron-methyl for acute exposures
are estimated to be 59.2 parts per billion (ppb) for surface water and
0.065 ppb for ground water.
For chronic exposures for non-cancer assessments EDWC's are
estimated to be 59.2 ppb for surface water and 0.065 ppb for ground
water.
Modeled estimates of drinking water concentrations were directly
entered into the dietary exposure model. For both the acute and chronic
dietary risk assessments, the water concentration value of 59.2 ppb was
used to assess the contribution to drinking water.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary
exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control,
termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets).
Halosulfuron-methyl is currently registered for the following uses
that could result in residential exposures: Residential turf use. EPA
assessed residential exposure using the following assumptions:
Residential handler short-term (1-30 days) dermal and inhalation
exposures, and residential post-application short-term dermal and
incidental oral (hand-to-mouth, object-to-mouth, and soil ingestion)
exposures are expected from activities associated with the existing
uses. Intermediate-term exposures are not likely because of the
intermittent nature of applications by homeowners.
Further information regarding EPA standard assumptions and generic
inputs for residential exposures may be found at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/trac/science/trac6a05.pdf.
4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
EPA has not found halosulfuron-methyl to share a common mechanism
of toxicity with any other substances, and halosulfuron-methyl does not
appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For
the purposes of this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that
halosulfuron-methyl does not have a common mechanism of toxicity with
other substances. For information regarding EPA's efforts to determine
which chemicals have a common mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate the
cumulative effects of such chemicals, see EPA's Web site at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA
shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants
and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal
and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the Food Quality
Protection Act (FQPA) Safety Factor (SF). In applying this provision,
EPA either retains the default value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable data available to EPA support
the choice of a different factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. The prenatal and postnatal
toxicity database for halosulfuron-methyl includes rat and rabbit
developmental toxicity studies and a 2-generation reproduction toxicity
study in rats. As discussed in Unit III.A., there was no quantitative
evidence for increased susceptibility following prenatal and/or
postnatal exposure. However, there was qualitative evidence for
increased susceptibility of fetuses in the rat and rabbit developmental
studies. In the rat study, increases in resorptions, soft tissue
(dilation of the lateral ventricles) and skeletal variations, and
decreases in body weights were seen in the fetuses compared to clinical
signs and decreases in body weights and food consumption in the
maternal animals. In the rabbit study, increases in resorptions and
post-implantation losses and decrease in mean litter size was seen in
the presence of decreases in body weight and food consumption in
maternal animals. Thus, in both species, the developmental effect was
considered to be qualitatively more severe than maternal effects (i.e.,
qualitative evidence for susceptibility). Nevertheless, the degree of
concern for these effects is low, and there are no residual
uncertainties for prenatal toxicity in both rats and rabbits for the
following reasons:
i. In both studies, there are clear NOAELs/LOAELs for developmental
and maternal toxicities.
ii. Developmental effects were seen in the presence of maternal
toxicity.
iii. The effects were only seen at the high dose.
iv. In rats, developmental effects were seen at a dose which
approached the limit-dose.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show the
safety of
[[Page 53050]]
infants and children would be adequately protected if the FQPA SF were
reduced to 1X. That decision is based on the following findings:
i. The toxicity database for halosulfuron-methyl is complete except
for an immunotoxicity study. In the absence of specific immunotoxicity
studies, EPA has evaluated the available halosulfuron-methyl toxicity
data to determine whether an additional uncertainty factor is needed to
account or potential immunotoxicity. The toxicology database for
halosulfuron-methyl does not show any evidence of biologically relevant
effects on the immune system following exposure to this chemical. The
overall weight-of-evidence suggests that this chemical does not
directly target the immune system. Based on these considerations, EPA
does not believe that conducting immunotoxicity testing will result in
a point of departure lower than those already selected for
halosulfuron-methyl risk assessment, and an additional database
uncertainty factor is not needed to account for the lack of this study.
ii. There is no indication that halosulfuron-methyl is a neurotoxic
chemical and there is no need for a developmental neurotoxicity study
or additional uncertainty factors to account for neurotoxicity.
iii. Although there is qualitative evidence of increased
susceptibility in the prenatal developmental studies in rats and
rabbits, as discussed in Unit III.D.2., there are no residual
uncertainties after establishing toxicity endpoints and the degree of
concern for pre- and/or postnatal toxicity is low.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties identified in the exposure
databases. The dietary food exposure assessments were performed based
on 100 PCT and tolerance-level residues. EPA made conservative
(protective) assumptions in the ground and surface water modeling used
to assess exposure to halosulfuron-methyl in drinking water. EPA used
similarly conservative assumptions to assess postapplication exposure
of children as well as incidental oral exposure of toddlers. These
assessments will not underestimate the exposure and risks posed by
halosulfuron-methyl.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide
exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the
acute population adjusted dose (aPAD) and chronic population adjusted
dose (cPAD). For linear cancer risks, EPA calculates the lifetime
probability of acquiring cancer given the estimated aggregate exposure.
Short-term, intermediate-term, and chronic-term risks are evaluated by
comparing the estimated aggregate food, water, and residential exposure
to the appropriate PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE exists.
1. Acute risk. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this
unit for acute exposure, the acute dietary exposure from food and water
to halosulfuron-methyl will occupy <1% of the aPAD for females 13-49
years, the population group receiving the greatest exposure.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this
unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that chronic exposure to
halosulfuron-methyl from food and water will utilize 5.5% of the cPAD
for all children 1-2 years old, the population group receiving the
greatest exposure. Chronic residential exposure to residues of
halosulfuron-methyl is not expected. Therefore, the chronic aggregate
risk would be equivalent to the chronic dietary exposure estimate.
3. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food
and water (considered to be a background exposure level). Halosulfuron-
methyl is currently registered for uses that could result in short-term
residential exposure, and the Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with
short-term residential exposures to halosulfuron-methyl.
Using the exposure assumptions described in this unit for short-
term exposures, EPA has concluded the combined short-term food, water,
and residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 1,800 for adults
and 840 for children. Residential exposure for use in the aggregate
assessment of adults and children 1 to <2 years old reflects the
combined post-application dermal plus hand-to-mouth exposures from turf
treated with liquid applications of halosulfuron-methyl. Because EPA's
level of concern for halosulfuron-methyl is a MOE of 100 or below,
these estimates of aggregate risk do not exceed the Agency's level of
concern.
4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered to be a background exposure
level). An intermediate-term adverse effect was identified; however,
halosulfuron-methyl is not registered for any use patterns that would
result in intermediate-term residential exposure pathway. Because there
is no intermediate-term residential exposure, the intermediate-term
aggregate risk would be equivalent to the chronic dietary exposure
estimate. Chronic dietary exposure has already been assessed under the
appropriately protective cPAD (which is at least as protective as the
equivalent POD value used to assess intermediate-term risk), no further
assessment of intermediate-term risk is necessary.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two adequate rodent carcinogenicity
studies, halosulfuron-methyl is not expected to pose a cancer risk to
humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA
concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result
to the general population, or to infants and children from aggregate
exposure to halosulfuron-methyl residues.
IV. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An adequate analytical method is available for enforcement of
tolerances for halosulfuron-methyl residues in plants. The gas
chromatography (GC) method quantifies halosulfuron-methyl as its
rearrangement ester (RRE; 1-H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid, 3-chloro-5-
[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)amino]-1-methyl, methyl ester) using
thermionic-specific detection (TSD, nitrogen specific). For
confirmation, the RRE can be determined by gas chromatography mass
spectroscopic detection (GC/MS).
The method may be requested from: Chief, Analytical Chemistry
Branch, Environmental Science Center, 701 Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD
20755-5350; telephone number: (410) 305-2905; email address:
residuemethods@epa.gov.
B. International Residue Limits
In making its tolerance decisions, EPA seeks to harmonize U.S.
tolerances with international standards whenever possible, consistent
with U.S. food safety standards and agricultural practices. EPA
considers the international maximum residue limits (MRLs) established
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA
section 408(b)(4). The Codex Alimentarius is a joint United Nations
Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization food
standards program, and it is recognized as an international food safety
standards-setting organization in trade agreements to
[[Page 53051]]
which the United States is a party. EPA may establish a tolerance that
is different from a Codex MRL; however, FFDCA section 408(b)(4)
requires that EPA explain the reasons for departing from the Codex
level. There are no Codex MRLs established for residues of
halosulfuron-methyl in/on any commodity.
V. Conclusion
Therefore, tolerances are established for residues of the herbicide
halosulfuron-methyl, methyl 5-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidiny)amino]
carbonylaminosulfonyl]-3-chloro-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate,
including its metabolites and degradates, in or on the commodities
artichoke at 0.05 ppm and caneberry subgroup 13-07A at 0.05 ppm.
VI. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This final rule establishes tolerances under FFDCA section 408(d)
in response to a petition submitted to the Agency. The Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted these types of actions from
review under Executive Order 12866, entitled ``Regulatory Planning and
Review'' (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993). Because this final rule has
been exempted from review under Executive Order 12866, this final rule
is not subject to Executive Order 13211, entitled ``Actions Concerning
Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or
Use'' (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045, entitled
``Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks'' (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997). This final rule does not contain
any information collections subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does it require any
special considerations under Executive Order 12898, entitled ``Federal
Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and
Low-Income Populations'' (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that are established on the basis
of a petition under FFDCA section 408(d), such as the tolerance in this
final rule, do not require the issuance of a proposed rule, the
requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq.), do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates growers, food processors, food
handlers, and food retailers, not States or tribes, nor does this
action alter the relationships or distribution of power and
responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption provisions
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency has determined that
this action will not have a substantial direct effect on States or
tribal governments, on the relationship between the national government
and the States or tribal governments, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government or between
the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Thus, the Agency has
determined that Executive Order 13132, entitled ``Federalism'' (64 FR
43255, August 10, 1999) and Executive Order 13175, entitled
``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments'' (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply to this final rule. In addition,
this final rule does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any
unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
This action does not involve any technical standards that would
require Agency consideration of voluntary consensus standards pursuant
to section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement
Act of 1995 (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
VII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.),
EPA will submit a report containing this rule and other required
information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and
the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of
the rule in the Federal Register. This action is not a ``major rule''
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: August 14, 2013.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows:
PART 180--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
0
2. In Sec. 180.479, add alphabetically the following commodities to
the table in paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows:
Sec. 180.479 Halosulfuron-methyl; tolerances for residues.
(a) * * *
(2) * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts per
Commodity million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Artichoke................................................... 0.05
* * * * *
Caneberry subgroup 13-07A................................... 0.05
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2013-20906 Filed 8-27-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P