n-Butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and Isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance, 53931-53935 [2016-19115]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 157 / Monday, August 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations this section is stayed from August 15, 2016 until November 14, 2016. [FR Doc. 2016–19113 Filed 8–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 180 [EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0719; FRL–9949–49] n-Butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and Isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES I. General Information A. Does this action apply to me? This regulation establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of n-butyl 3hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605– 94–0) and isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074–94–1) when used as inert ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or raw agricultural commodities after harvest; to animals; and to food contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Steptoe and Johnson, on behalf of Eastman Chemical Company, submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting establishment of these exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of n-butyl 3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl 3hydroxybutyrate when applied or used under these conditions. DATES: This regulation is effective August 15, 2016. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before October 14, 2016, 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–2015–0719, 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), West William Jefferson Clinton 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 SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Aug 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 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: Susan Lewis, Registration Division (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001; main telephone number: (703) 305–7090; email address: RDFRNotices@epa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 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 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 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–2015–0719 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 14, 2016. Addresses for mail and hand delivery of objections PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 53931 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– 2015–0719, 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. II. Petition for Exemption In the Federal Register of November 23, 2015 (80 FR 72941) (FRL–9936–73), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C. 346a, announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP IN–10841) by Steptoe and Johnson LLP (1330 Connecticut Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20036–1795) on behalf of the Eastman Chemical Company (200 South Wilcox Drive, Kingsport, TN 37660–5280). The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.910, 180.930, and 180.940 be amended to establish exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605–94–0); and isopropyl 3hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074– 94–1) when used as inert ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations applied to pre- and post-harvest crops under 40 CFR 180.910; to animals under 40 CFR 180.930; and to food contact surface sanitizing solutions under 40 CFR 180.940(a). That document referenced a summary of the petition prepared by Steptoe and Johnson on behalf of Eastman Chemical Company, the petitioner, which is available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. E:\FR\FM\15AUR1.SGM 15AUR1 53932 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 157 / Monday, August 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations Comments were received on the notice of filing. EPA’s response to these comments is discussed in Unit V.B. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES III. Inert Ingredient Definition Inert ingredients are all ingredients that are not active ingredients as defined in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are not limited to, the following types of ingredients (except when they have a pesticidal efficacy of their own): Solvents such as alcohols and hydrocarbons; surfactants such as polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty acids; carriers such as clay and diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as carrageenan and modified cellulose; wetting, spreading, and dispersing agents; propellants in aerosol dispensers; microencapsulating agents; and emulsifiers. The term ‘‘inert’’ is not intended to imply nontoxicity; the ingredient may or may not be chemically active. Generally, EPA has exempted inert ingredients from the requirement of a tolerance based on the low toxicity of the individual inert ingredients. IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish an exemption from the requirement for 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. . . .’’ EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only in those cases where it can be clearly demonstrated that the risks from aggregate exposure to pesticide chemical residues under reasonably foreseeable circumstances will pose no appreciable risks to human health. In order to determine the risks from aggregate exposure to pesticide inert ingredients, the Agency considers the toxicity of the inert in conjunction with VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Aug 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 possible exposure to residues of the inert ingredient through food, drinking water, and through other exposures that occur as a result of pesticide use in residential settings. If EPA is able to determine that a finite tolerance is not necessary to ensure that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to the inert ingredient, an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance may be established. Consistent with FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(A), and the factors specified in FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), 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 n-butyl 3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl 3hydroxybutyrate including exposure resulting from the exemption established by this action. EPA’s assessment of exposures and risks associated with n-butyl 3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl 3hydroxybutyrate 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. Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the adverse effects caused by n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate as well as the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observedadverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from the toxicity studies are discussed in this unit. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate are structurally similar chemical entities differing only in one methyl group (CH3). Therefore the toxicity of these two chemicals is expected to be similar. Since there are no adequate data available for each one individually, the Agency utilizes read-across data to fill data gaps. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate both exhibit very low levels of acute oral, dermal and inhalation toxicity each with LD50 values >5,000 mg/kg. n-Butyl3-hydroxybutyrate is moderately irritating to the rabbit eye and is slightly irritating to rabbit skin. Isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate is not irritating to PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 rabbit skin. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate are not dermal sensitizers. In a 28-day subchronic feeding study in rats which included a reproduction/ developmental screening assessment, exposure to isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate resulted in no adverse test item-related toxicological effects on clinical observations, no adverse effects seen in FOB assessments, no adverse effects on motor activity evaluations, no adverse effects seen in gross necropsy observations, male or female reproductive performance, or neurobehavioral parameters. The noobserved-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) for reproductive toxicity was 1,000 mg/ kg/day. The NOAEL for systemic toxicity was 1,000 mg/kg/day. In the absence of effects on the general physical condition of F1 pups, the NOAEL for neonatal toxicity was 1,000 mg/kg/day. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate were negative in reverse gene mutation assays. Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate was negative in a chromosome aberration assay and a gene mutation assay. There were no neurotoxicity or immunotoxicity studies available. However, there was no evidence of adverse neurotoxic effects noted during the FOB evaluations and the motor activity evaluations. There was no evidence of immunotoxicity in the available database. Based on the negative responses seen in the genotoxicity and lack of systemic toxicity in the reproductive and developmental screening study, n-butyl3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate are considered unlikely to be carcinogenic. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate both have a low solubility; therefore, it is unlikely that either material will be absorbed by the body and become systemically bioavailable. Both compounds are expected to hydrolyze quickly and completely in vivo, and the resulting hydrolysis products are very close in structure or are the same, depending on the specific hydrolysis product. The available in vitro data suggests that isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate can undergo fast hydrolysis by enzymes in the plasma and liver to produce n-butyl3-hydroxybutyrate, which is perhaps further metabolized. Isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate concentration decreased from approximately 70 mM to below the limit of detection (<6.68 mM) in plasma within 2 hours and in rat liver S9 fraction within 30 minutes. Although stable in phosphate buffer, isopropyl-3- E:\FR\FM\15AUR1.SGM 15AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 157 / Monday, August 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations hydroxybutyrate concentration levels decreased from 70 mM to below the LOD within 30 minutes with ONLY slight increases in beta-hydroxybutyate levels indicating that either it is formed in small quantity (minor pathway) and/or rapidly metabolized and removed from the circulation. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES 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. An acute effect was not found in the database therefore an acute dietary assessment is not necessary. In the 28day subchronic oral toxicity study in rats with neurotoxicity measurements, no toxicity was observed at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day. Therefore, the Agency concluded that it is not necessary to conduct a quantitative risk assessment. C. Exposure Assessment 1. Dietary exposure from food, feed uses and drinking water. In evaluating dietary exposure to n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate, EPA considered exposure under the proposed exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. EPA assessed dietary exposures from nbutyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl3-hydroxybutyrate in food and drinking water as follows: Dietary exposure can occur from eating foods or ingesting VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Aug 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 drinking water containing residues of nbutyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl3-hydroxybutyrate. Because no hazard endpoint of concern was identified for the acute and chronic dietary assessment (food, feed and drinking water uses, a quantitative dietary exposure risk assessment was not conducted 2. From non-dietary exposure. The term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure (e.g., textiles (clothing and diapers), carpets, swimming pools, and hard surface disinfection on walls, floors, tables). n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate may be used in inert ingredients in products that are registered for specific uses that may result in residential exposure, such as pesticides used in and round the home. However, since no endpoint of concern identified in the available database, it is not necessary to conduct a quantitative residential exposure assessment. 3. 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 n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate to share a common mechanism of toxicity with any other substances, and n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate does not appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For the purposes of this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate 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 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 53933 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 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. As part of its qualitative assessment, EPA evaluated the available toxicity and exposure data on n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate and considered its validity, completeness, and reliability, as well as the relationship of this information to human risk. EPA considers the toxicity database to be sufficient to evaluate risk and has identified no residual uncertainty with regard to prenatal and postnatal toxicity or exposure. No hazard was identified based on the available studies; therefore, EPA concludes that there are no threshold effects of concern to infants, children, or adults from n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate. As a result, EPA concludes that no additional margin of exposure (safety) is necessary. E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety Because no toxicological endpoints of concern were identified, EPA concludes that aggregate exposure to residues of nbutyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl3-hydroxybutyrate will not pose a risk to the U.S. population, including infants and children, and that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the general population, or to infants and children from aggregate exposure to n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate residues. V. Other Considerations A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since the Agency is not establishing a numerical tolerance for residues of n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate in or on any food commodities. EPA is not establishing a limitation on the amount of n-butyl-3hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate that may be used in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops. B. Comments Two generic comments objecting to the use of chemicals in food were submitted to the docket for this action. E:\FR\FM\15AUR1.SGM 15AUR1 53934 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 157 / Monday, August 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations Neither of the comments contained any specific information bearing on the Agency’s safety finding for these chemicals. The Agency understands the commenters’ concerns and recognizes that some individuals believe that pesticides should be banned on agricultural crops. However, the existing legal framework provided by section 408 of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) states that tolerances may be set when persons seeking such tolerances or exemptions have demonstrated that the pesticide meets the safety standard imposed by that statute. The comment appears to be directed at the underlying statute and not EPA’s implementation of it; the citizen has made no contention that EPA has acted in violation of the statutory framework. VI. Conclusions Therefore, exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance are established under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR 180.940(a) for n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605–94–0) and isopropyl-3hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074– 94–1) when used as inert ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or raw agricultural commodities after harvest (40 CFR 180.910); to animals (40 CFR 180.930); or to food contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils (40 CFR 180.940(a)). VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews This action establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance 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 action has been exempted from review under Executive Order 12866, this action 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 action 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 exemptions 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 action 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 action. In addition, this action does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (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 (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note). VIII. 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: July 25, 2016. Daniel J. Rosenblatt, Acting 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 § 180.910, add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the table to read as follows: ■ § 180.910 Inert ingredients used pre- and post-harvest; exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. * * * Limits * * * * n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605–94–0) ............................................. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES Inert ingredients * ........................ * ........................ * Solvent. * * * * Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074–94–1) ......................................... * Solvent. * VerDate Sep<11>2014 * 17:35 Aug 12, 2016 * Jkt 238001 PO 00000 * Frm 00028 Fmt 4700 Uses * * Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\15AUR1.SGM 15AUR1 * * * * * 53935 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 157 / Monday, August 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 3. In § 180.930, add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the table to read as follows: ■ § 180.930 Inert ingredients applied to animals; exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. * * * * * Inert ingredients Limits * * * * n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605–94–0) ............................................. * ........................ Solvent. * * * * Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074–94–1) ......................................... * ........................ Solvent. * * * 4. In § 180.940(a), add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the table in paragraph (a) to read as follows: ■ * Uses * * * * * * (a) * * * * Pesticide chemical CAS Reg. No. Limits * * * * n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate ............................................................................................. * 53605–94–0 Solvent. * * * * Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate ......................................................................................... * 54074–94–1 Solvent. * * * * * * * * [FR Doc. 2016–19115 Filed 8–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 49 CFR Parts 173 and 179 [Docket No. PHMSA–2016–0011 (HM–251C)] RIN 2137–AF17 Hazardous Materials: FAST Act Requirements for Flammable Liquids and Rail Tank Cars Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is issuing this final rule to codify in the Hazardous Materials Regulations certain mandates and minimum requirements of the FAST Act. Specifically, the FAST Act mandates a revised phase-out schedule for all DOT Specification 111 tank cars used to transport unrefined petroleum products (e.g., petroleum crude oil), ethanol, and other Class 3 flammable liquids. The FAST Act also SUMMARY: sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES * * * § 180.940 Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact surface sanitizing solutions). * * VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Aug 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 * The FAST Act instructs the Secretary of Transportation to issue conforming regulatory amendments immediately or soon after the FAST Act’s date of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Frm 00029 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 * * * * * requires that each tank car built to meet the DOT Specification 117 and each non-jacketed tank car retrofitted to meet the DOT Specification 117R be equipped with a thermal protection blanket that is at least 1⁄2-inch thick and meets existing thermal protection standards. Further, the FAST Act mandates minimum top fittings protection requirements for tank cars retrofitted to meet the DOT Specification 117R. DATES: Effective: August 15, 2016. ADDRESSES: Docket: You may view the public docket online at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at Dockets Operations, M–30, Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Ciccarone, (202) 366–8553, Standards and Rulemaking Division, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001. PO 00000 * * enactment (December 4, 2015). Because the actions taken in this final rule simply codify these non-discretionary statutory mandates, PHMSA finds that timely execution of agency functions would be impeded by the procedures of public notice that are normally required by the Administrative Procedure Act. Further, PHMSA sees no reason to delay regulatory action, as we are simply implementing the non-discretionary provisions contained in Sections 7304, 7305, and 7306 of the FAST Act. PHMSA finds that public notice is impracticable and is implementing these changes under the ‘‘good cause’’ exemption of the Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B), thus amending the regulations without advance notice and opportunity for public comment. Abbreviations and Terms AAR Association of American Railroads APA Administrative Procedure Act CFR Code of Federal Regulations CPC Casualty Prevention Circular DOT Department of Transportation EA Environmental Assessment FAST Act Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act of 2015 FR Federal Register FRA Federal Railroad Administration HHFT High-Hazard Flammable Train HMR Hazardous Materials Regulations HMT Hazardous Materials Table E:\FR\FM\15AUR1.SGM 15AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 157 (Monday, August 15, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53931-53935]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-19115]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0719; FRL-9949-49]


n-Butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and Isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate; 
Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This regulation establishes exemptions from the requirement of 
a tolerance for residues of n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 
53605-94-0) and isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074-94-1) 
when used as inert ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations 
applied to growing crops or raw agricultural commodities after harvest; 
to animals; and to food contact surfaces in public eating places, 
dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. 
Steptoe and Johnson, on behalf of Eastman Chemical Company, submitted a 
petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), 
requesting establishment of these exemptions from the requirement of a 
tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum 
permissible level for residues of n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and 
isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate when applied or used under these 
conditions.

DATES: This regulation is effective August 15, 2016. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before October 14, 2016, 
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-2015-0719, 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), West William Jefferson Clinton 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: Susan Lewis, Registration Division 
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; main telephone 
number: (703) 305-7090; email address: RDFRNotices@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 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-2015-0719 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 14, 2016. 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-2015-0719, 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.

II. Petition for Exemption

    In the Federal Register of November 23, 2015 (80 FR 72941) (FRL-
9936-73), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 
U.S.C. 346a, announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP IN-
10841) by Steptoe and Johnson LLP (1330 Connecticut Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20036-1795) on behalf of the Eastman Chemical Company 
(200 South Wilcox Drive, Kingsport, TN 37660-5280). The petition 
requested that 40 CFR 180.910, 180.930, and 180.940 be amended to 
establish exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues 
of n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605-94-0); and isopropyl 
3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074-94-1) when used as inert 
ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations applied to pre- and 
post-harvest crops under 40 CFR 180.910; to animals under 40 CFR 
180.930; and to food contact surface sanitizing solutions under 40 CFR 
180.940(a). That document referenced a summary of the petition prepared 
by Steptoe and Johnson on behalf of Eastman Chemical Company, the 
petitioner, which is available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov.

[[Page 53932]]

Comments were received on the notice of filing. EPA's response to these 
comments is discussed in Unit V.B.

III. Inert Ingredient Definition

    Inert ingredients are all ingredients that are not active 
ingredients as defined in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are not 
limited to, the following types of ingredients (except when they have a 
pesticidal efficacy of their own): Solvents such as alcohols and 
hydrocarbons; surfactants such as polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty 
acids; carriers such as clay and diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as 
carrageenan and modified cellulose; wetting, spreading, and dispersing 
agents; propellants in aerosol dispensers; microencapsulating agents; 
and emulsifiers. The term ``inert'' is not intended to imply 
nontoxicity; the ingredient may or may not be chemically active. 
Generally, EPA has exempted inert ingredients from the requirement of a 
tolerance based on the low toxicity of the individual inert 
ingredients.

IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety

    Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish an 
exemption from the requirement for 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. . . .''
    EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only 
in those cases where it can be clearly demonstrated that the risks from 
aggregate exposure to pesticide chemical residues under reasonably 
foreseeable circumstances will pose no appreciable risks to human 
health. In order to determine the risks from aggregate exposure to 
pesticide inert ingredients, the Agency considers the toxicity of the 
inert in conjunction with possible exposure to residues of the inert 
ingredient through food, drinking water, and through other exposures 
that occur as a result of pesticide use in residential settings. If EPA 
is able to determine that a finite tolerance is not necessary to ensure 
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from 
aggregate exposure to the inert ingredient, an exemption from the 
requirement of a tolerance may be established.
    Consistent with FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(A), and the factors 
specified in FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), 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 n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and 
isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate including exposure resulting from the 
exemption established by this action. EPA's assessment of exposures and 
risks associated with n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl 3-
hydroxybutyrate 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. Specific information on the studies received and the nature 
of the adverse effects caused by n-butyl 3-hydroxybutyrate and 
isopropyl 3-hydroxybutyrate as well as the no-observed-adverse-effect-
level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from 
the toxicity studies are discussed in this unit.
    n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate are 
structurally similar chemical entities differing only in one methyl 
group (CH3). Therefore the toxicity of these two chemicals 
is expected to be similar. Since there are no adequate data available 
for each one individually, the Agency utilizes read-across data to fill 
data gaps.
    n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate both 
exhibit very low levels of acute oral, dermal and inhalation toxicity 
each with LD50 values >5,000 mg/kg. n-Butyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate is moderately irritating to the rabbit eye and is 
slightly irritating to rabbit skin. Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate is not 
irritating to rabbit skin. n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate are not dermal sensitizers.
    In a 28-day subchronic feeding study in rats which included a 
reproduction/developmental screening assessment, exposure to isopropyl-
3-hydroxybutyrate resulted in no adverse test item-related 
toxicological effects on clinical observations, no adverse effects seen 
in FOB assessments, no adverse effects on motor activity evaluations, 
no adverse effects seen in gross necropsy observations, male or female 
reproductive performance, or neurobehavioral parameters. The no-
observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) for reproductive toxicity was 
1,000 mg/kg/day. The NOAEL for systemic toxicity was 1,000 mg/kg/day. 
In the absence of effects on the general physical condition of 
F1 pups, the NOAEL for neonatal toxicity was 1,000 mg/kg/
day.
    n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate were 
negative in reverse gene mutation assays. Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate 
was negative in a chromosome aberration assay and a gene mutation 
assay.
    There were no neurotoxicity or immunotoxicity studies available. 
However, there was no evidence of adverse neurotoxic effects noted 
during the FOB evaluations and the motor activity evaluations. There 
was no evidence of immunotoxicity in the available database.
    Based on the negative responses seen in the genotoxicity and lack 
of systemic toxicity in the reproductive and developmental screening 
study, n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate are 
considered unlikely to be carcinogenic.
    n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate both have 
a low solubility; therefore, it is unlikely that either material will 
be absorbed by the body and become systemically bioavailable. Both 
compounds are expected to hydrolyze quickly and completely in vivo, and 
the resulting hydrolysis products are very close in structure or are 
the same, depending on the specific hydrolysis product. The available 
in vitro data suggests that isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate can undergo 
fast hydrolysis by enzymes in the plasma and liver to produce n-butyl-
3-hydroxybutyrate, which is perhaps further metabolized. Isopropyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate concentration decreased from approximately 70 [mu]M to 
below the limit of detection (<6.68 [mu]M) in plasma within 2 hours and 
in rat liver S9 fraction within 30 minutes. Although stable in 
phosphate buffer, isopropyl-3-

[[Page 53933]]

hydroxybutyrate concentration levels decreased from 70 [mu]M to below 
the LOD within 30 minutes with ONLY slight increases in beta-
hydroxybutyate levels indicating that either it is formed in small 
quantity (minor pathway) and/or rapidly metabolized and removed from 
the circulation.

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.
    An acute effect was not found in the database therefore an acute 
dietary assessment is not necessary. In the 28-day subchronic oral 
toxicity study in rats with neurotoxicity measurements, no toxicity was 
observed at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day. Therefore, the Agency 
concluded that it is not necessary to conduct a quantitative risk 
assessment.

C. Exposure Assessment

    1. Dietary exposure from food, feed uses and drinking water. In 
evaluating dietary exposure to n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-
3-hydroxybutyrate, EPA considered exposure under the proposed exemption 
from the requirement of a tolerance. EPA assessed dietary exposures 
from n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate in food 
and drinking water as follows: Dietary exposure can occur from eating 
foods or ingesting drinking water containing residues of n-butyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate. Because no hazard 
endpoint of concern was identified for the acute and chronic dietary 
assessment (food, feed and drinking water uses, a quantitative dietary 
exposure risk assessment was not conducted
    2. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is 
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary 
exposure (e.g., textiles (clothing and diapers), carpets, swimming 
pools, and hard surface disinfection on walls, floors, tables).
    n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate may be 
used in inert ingredients in products that are registered for specific 
uses that may result in residential exposure, such as pesticides used 
in and round the home. However, since no endpoint of concern identified 
in the available database, it is not necessary to conduct a 
quantitative residential exposure assessment.
    3. 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 n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate to share a common mechanism of toxicity with any other 
substances, and n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate does not appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced 
by other substances. For the purposes of this tolerance action, 
therefore, EPA has assumed that n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and 
isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate 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 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.
    As part of its qualitative assessment, EPA evaluated the available 
toxicity and exposure data on n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-
3-hydroxybutyrate and considered its validity, completeness, and 
reliability, as well as the relationship of this information to human 
risk. EPA considers the toxicity database to be sufficient to evaluate 
risk and has identified no residual uncertainty with regard to prenatal 
and postnatal toxicity or exposure. No hazard was identified based on 
the available studies; therefore, EPA concludes that there are no 
threshold effects of concern to infants, children, or adults from n-
butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate. As a result, 
EPA concludes that no additional margin of exposure (safety) is 
necessary.

E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety

    Because no toxicological endpoints of concern were identified, EPA 
concludes that aggregate exposure to residues of n-butyl-3-
hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate will not pose a risk to 
the U.S. population, including infants and children, and that there is 
a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the general 
population, or to infants and children from aggregate exposure to n-
butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate residues.

V. Other Considerations

A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since 
the Agency is not establishing a numerical tolerance for residues of n-
butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate in or on any 
food commodities. EPA is not establishing a limitation on the amount of 
n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate and isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate that may be 
used in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops.

B. Comments

    Two generic comments objecting to the use of chemicals in food were 
submitted to the docket for this action.

[[Page 53934]]

Neither of the comments contained any specific information bearing on 
the Agency's safety finding for these chemicals. The Agency understands 
the commenters' concerns and recognizes that some individuals believe 
that pesticides should be banned on agricultural crops. However, the 
existing legal framework provided by section 408 of the Federal Food, 
Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) states that tolerances may be set when 
persons seeking such tolerances or exemptions have demonstrated that 
the pesticide meets the safety standard imposed by that statute. The 
comment appears to be directed at the underlying statute and not EPA's 
implementation of it; the citizen has made no contention that EPA has 
acted in violation of the statutory framework.

VI. Conclusions

    Therefore, exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance are 
established under 40 CFR 180.910, 40 CFR 180.930, and 40 CFR 180.940(a) 
for n-butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 53605-94-0) and isopropyl-
3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS Reg. No. 54074-94-1) when used as inert 
ingredients (solvents) in pesticide formulations applied to growing 
crops or raw agricultural commodities after harvest (40 CFR 180.910); 
to animals (40 CFR 180.930); or to food contact surfaces in public 
eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing 
equipment and utensils (40 CFR 180.940(a)).

VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    This action establishes exemptions from the requirement of a 
tolerance 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 action has been exempted from review 
under Executive Order 12866, this action 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 action 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 exemptions 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 action 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 action. In addition, this 
action does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any unfunded 
mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act 
(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 (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).

VIII. 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: July 25, 2016.
Daniel J. Rosenblatt,
Acting 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.  180.910, add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the 
table to read as follows:


Sec.  180.910  Inert ingredients used pre- and post-harvest; exemptions 
from the requirement of a tolerance.

* * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Inert ingredients              Limits              Uses
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS      ..............  Solvent.
 Reg. No. 53605-94-0).
 
                              * * * * * * *
Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS    ..............  Solvent.
 Reg. No. 54074-94-1).
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 53935]]


0
3. In Sec.  180.930, add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the 
table to read as follows:


Sec.  180.930  Inert ingredients applied to animals; exemptions from 
the requirement of a tolerance.

* * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Inert ingredients              Limits              Uses
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS      ..............  Solvent.
 Reg. No. 53605-94-0).
 
                              * * * * * * *
Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (CAS    ..............  Solvent.
 Reg. No. 54074-94-1).
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
4. In Sec.  180.940(a), add alphabetically the inert ingredients to the 
table in paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  180.940  Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients 
for use in antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact surface sanitizing 
solutions).

* * * * *
    (a) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Pesticide chemical           CAS Reg. No.          Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
n-Butyl-3-hydroxybutyrate.........      53605-94-0  Solvent.
 
                              * * * * * * *
Isopropyl-3-hydroxybutyrate.......      54074-94-1  Solvent.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2016-19115 Filed 8-12-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
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