2-Propenoic Acid, Polymer With Butyl 2-Propenoate, Ethenylbenzene and (1-Methylethenyl) Benzene, Ammonium Salt; Tolerance Exemption, 48555-48558 [2018-20958]

Download as PDF 48555 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 187 / Wednesday, September 26, 2018 / Rules and Regulations Polymer CAS No. * * * * * * Maltodextrin-vinyl pyrrolidinone copolymer, minimum number average molecular weight (in amu), 21,000 ..................................... * 1323833–56–2 * * * [FR Doc. 2018–20968 Filed 9–25–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 180 [EPA–HQ–OPP–2018–0264; FRL–9983–22] 2-Propenoic Acid, Polymer With Butyl 2-Propenoate, Ethenylbenzene and (1Methylethenyl) Benzene, Ammonium Salt; Tolerance Exemption Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:04 Sep 25, 2018 Jkt 244001 * 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: Michael Goodis, Director, 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 This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt; when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation. Spring Trading Company on behalf of BASF Corporation submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of 2propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt on food or feed commodities. DATES: This regulation is effective September 26, 2018. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before November 26, 2018, 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–2018–0264, 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: * 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. 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– PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 * * OPP–2018–0264 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 November 26, 2018. 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– 2018–0264, 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. Background and Statutory Findings In the Federal Register of June 14, 2018 (83 FR 27743) (FRL–9978–41), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C. 346a(d)(3), announcing the receipt of a pesticide petition (PP IN–11149) filed by Spring Trading Company on behalf of BASF Corporation, 100 Park Avenue, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.960 be amended by establishing an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, E:\FR\FM\26SER1.SGM 26SER1 48556 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 187 / Wednesday, September 26, 2018 / Rules and Regulations daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt; CAS Reg. No. 360564–31–4. That document included a summary of the petition prepared by the petitioner and solicited comments on the petitioner’s request. The Agency did not receive any comments. 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 exemption is ‘‘safe.’’ Section 408(c)(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 use 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 an exemption from the requirement of 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 . . .’’ and specifies factors EPA is to consider in establishing an exemption. III. Risk Assessment and Statutory Findings EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only in those cases where it can be shown 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(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available scientific data and other relevant information in support of this action and considered its validity, completeness and reliability and the relationship of this information to VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:04 Sep 25, 2018 Jkt 244001 human risk. EPA has also considered available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and children. In the case of certain chemical substances that are defined as polymers, the Agency has established a set of criteria to identify categories of polymers expected to present minimal or no risk. The definition of a polymer is given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and the exclusion criteria for identifying these low-risk polymers are described in 40 CFR 723.250(d). 2-Propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt conforms to the definition of a polymer given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and meets the following criteria that are used to identify low-risk polymers. 1. The polymer is not a cationic polymer nor is it reasonably anticipated to become a cationic polymer in a natural aquatic environment. 2. The polymer does contain as an integral part of its composition at least two of the atomic elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, silicon, and sulfur. 3. The polymer does not contain as an integral part of its composition, except as impurities, any element other than those listed in 40 CFR 723.250(d)(2)(ii). 4. The polymer is neither designed nor can it be reasonably anticipated to substantially degrade, decompose, or depolymerize. 5. The polymer is manufactured or imported from monomers and/or reactants that are already included on the TSCA Chemical Substance Inventory or manufactured under an applicable TSCA section 5 exemption. 6. The polymer is not a water absorbing polymer with a number average molecular weight (MW) greater than or equal to 10,000 daltons. 7. The polymer does not contain certain perfluoroalkyl moieties consisting of a CF3- or longer chain length as listed in 40 CFR 723.250(d)(6). Additionally, the polymer also meets as required the following exemption criteria specified in 40 CFR 723.250(e). 8. The polymer’s number average MW of 2,300 is greater than 1,000 and less than 10,000 daltons. The polymer contains less than 10% oligomeric material below MW 500 and less than 25% oligomeric material below MW 1,000, and the polymer does not contain any reactive functional groups. Thus, 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt meets the criteria for a polymer to be considered low risk under 40 CFR PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 723.250. Based on its conformance to the criteria in this unit, no mammalian toxicity is anticipated from dietary, inhalation, or dermal exposure to 2propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt. IV. Aggregate Exposures For the purposes of assessing potential exposure under this exemption, EPA considered that 2propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt could be present in all raw and processed agricultural commodities and drinking water, and that nonoccupational non-dietary exposure was possible. The number average MW of 2propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt is 2,300 daltons. Generally, a polymer of this size would be poorly absorbed through the intact gastrointestinal tract or through intact human skin. Since 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt conform to the criteria that identify a low-risk polymer, there are no concerns for risks associated with any potential exposure scenarios that are reasonably foreseeable. The Agency has determined that a tolerance is not necessary to protect the public health. V. 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 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt to share a common mechanism of toxicity with any other substances, and 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt does not appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For the purposes of this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that 2propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt does not have a common mechanism of toxicity with other E:\FR\FM\26SER1.SGM 26SER1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 187 / Wednesday, September 26, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 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 website at https:// www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative. VI. Additional Safety Factor for the Protection of Infants and Children Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply an additional tenfold 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 data base unless EPA concludes that a different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. Due to the expected low toxicity of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt, EPA has not used a safety factor analysis to assess the risk. For the same reasons the additional tenfold safety factor is unnecessary. VII. Determination of Safety Based on the conformance to the criteria used to identify a low-risk polymer, EPA concludes that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to the U.S. population, including infants and children, from aggregate exposure to residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt. VIII. Other Considerations daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since the Agency is establishing an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance without any numerical limitation. 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 which the United States is a party. EPA may establish a tolerance that is VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:04 Sep 25, 2018 Jkt 244001 different from a Codex MRL; however, FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that EPA explain the reasons for departing from the Codex level. The Codex has not established a MRL for 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt. IX. Conclusion Accordingly, EPA finds that exempting residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt from the requirement of a tolerance will be safe. X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews This action establishes 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 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 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 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 48557 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). XI. 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: September 7, 2018. Michael Goodis, 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 § 180.960, alphabetically add the polymer ‘‘2-Propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt, minimum number average molecular weight (in amu), 2,300’’ to the table to read as follows: ■ E:\FR\FM\26SER1.SGM 26SER1 48558 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 187 / Wednesday, September 26, 2018 / Rules and Regulations § 180.960 Polymers; exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. * * * * * Polymer CAS No. * * * * * * 2-Propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt, minimum number average molecular weight (in amu), 2,300 ......................................................................................................................... * * * BILLING CODE 6560–50–P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Administration for Children and Families 45 CFR Part 1302 RIN 0970–AC78 Head Start Program Office of Head Start (OHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). ACTION: Final rule; delay of compliance date. AGENCY: The Office of Head Start will further delay the compliance date for programs to meet background checks requirements and participate in their state or local Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS). The Department delayed the compliance dates for these standards through a previous document in the Federal Register. Since then, we have learned programs could benefit from more time as they work to align with state systems to meet these federal standards. DATES: The date for programs to comply with background checks procedures as described in 45 CFR 1302.90(b) and to participate in QRIS as described in 45 CFR 1302.53(b)(2), as published at 81 FR 61294 and delayed at 81 FR 87843 and 82 FR 45205, is further delayed until September 30, 2019. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Colleen Rathgeb, Office of Head Start, Planning, Oversight, and Policy Division Director, (202) 358–3263, OHS_NPRM@acf.hhs.gov. Deaf and hearing impaired individuals may call the Federal Dual Party Relay Service at 1–800–877–8339 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:04 Sep 25, 2018 Jkt 244001 * Background [FR Doc. 2018–20958 Filed 9–25–18; 8:45 am] SUMMARY: * The Head Start Program Performance Standards (81 FR 61294) define standards grantees and delegate agencies must implement to operate high quality Head Start or Early Head Start programs. As part of our effort to prioritize child safety, we strengthened our criminal background check procedures at 45 CFR 1302.90(b) in the final rule to reflect changes in the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, Public Law 110– 134, and to complement background check requirements in the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014, Public Law 113–186. In addition to more comprehensive background check standards, we aim to strengthen partnerships between states and Head Start programs. At 45 CFR 1302.53(b) in the final rule, we require Head Start programs to actively promote coordinated early childhood systems, including those in their state. As part of these requirements, most Head Start programs must participate in QRIS, if they meet certain conditions. Currently, Head Start programs must comply with background check requirements and participate in their states’ QRIS, by September 30, 2018. We have already delayed the date for programs to comply with background check requirements in the final rule to align with the background check requirement deadline in the Child Care Development Block Grant Act of 2014, Public Law 113–186, through a document published in the Federal Register (82 FR 45205) on September 28, 2017. In the same Federal Register document, we extended the date for programs to participate in QRIS. Through conversations with programs and states, we are concerned programs are still not be able to fully implement either background check or QRIS requirements by September 30, 2018, without assuming unintended regulatory and administrative burden. PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 * * 360564–31–4 * Background Checks Procedures in the Final Rule Generally, 45 CFR 1302.90(b)(1) requires that before a person is hired, programs must conduct a sex offender registry check and obtain either a state or tribal criminal history records, including fingerprint checks, or a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal history records, including fingerprint checks. In 45 CFR 1302.90(b)(2), (4), and (5), we afford programs 90 days to obtain whichever check they could not obtain before the person was hired, as well as child abuse and neglect state registry check, if available. However, programs must ensure newly hired employees do not have unsupervised access to children until their background check process is complete. A complete background check process consists of a sex offender registry check, state or tribal history records, including fingerprint check and FBI criminal history records, including fingerprint check, as well as a child abuse and neglect state registry check, if available. We also require programs to conduct complete background checks for each employee at least once every five years. We believe programs require more time to implement systems to complete the background checks process listed at 45 CFR 1302.90(b)(2), (4), and (5) in our final rule. We aligned our compliance date for our background checks requirements with the background check requirement deadline the CCDBG Act because states that receive CCDBG funds are required to establish systems that implement the same set of comprehensive background checks for all child care teachers and staff. These systems will enable Head Start programs to meet background check requirements in the final rule. We understand, however, states may request additional time-limited waivers of up to two years, in one year increments (i.e., potentially through September 30, 2020) to design systems that can accommodate our programs’ background checks requests. To minimize burden on programs, we will E:\FR\FM\26SER1.SGM 26SER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 187 (Wednesday, September 26, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 48555-48558]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-20958]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0264; FRL-9983-22]


2-Propenoic Acid, Polymer With Butyl 2-Propenoate, Ethenylbenzene 
and (1-Methylethenyl) Benzene, Ammonium Salt; Tolerance Exemption

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement 
of a tolerance for residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-
propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium 
salt; when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical 
formulation. Spring Trading Company on behalf of BASF Corporation 
submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic 
Act (FFDCA), requesting an exemption from the requirement of a 
tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum 
permissible level for residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 
2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium 
salt on food or feed commodities.

DATES: This regulation is effective September 26, 2018. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before November 26, 2018, 
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-2018-0264, 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: Michael Goodis, Director, 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: 
[email protected].

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. 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-2018-0264 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 
November 26, 2018. 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-2018-0264, 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. Background and Statutory Findings

    In the Federal Register of June 14, 2018 (83 FR 27743) (FRL-9978-
41), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C. 
346a(d)(3), announcing the receipt of a pesticide petition (PP IN-
11149) filed by Spring Trading Company on behalf of BASF Corporation, 
100 Park Avenue, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932. The petition requested 
that 40 CFR 180.960 be amended by establishing an exemption from the 
requirement of a tolerance for residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer 
with butyl 2-propenoate,

[[Page 48556]]

ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt; CAS Reg. 
No. 360564-31-4. That document included a summary of the petition 
prepared by the petitioner and solicited comments on the petitioner's 
request. The Agency did not receive any comments.
    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 exemption is ``safe.'' Section 408(c)(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 use 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 an exemption from the 
requirement of 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 . . .'' and 
specifies factors EPA is to consider in establishing an exemption.

III. Risk Assessment and Statutory Findings

    EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only 
in those cases where it can be shown 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(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the 
available scientific data and other relevant information in support of 
this action and considered its validity, completeness and reliability 
and the relationship of this information 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. In the case of certain chemical substances that 
are defined as polymers, the Agency has established a set of criteria 
to identify categories of polymers expected to present minimal or no 
risk. The definition of a polymer is given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and the 
exclusion criteria for identifying these low-risk polymers are 
described in 40 CFR 723.250(d). 2-Propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-
propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt 
conforms to the definition of a polymer given in 40 CFR 723.250(b) and 
meets the following criteria that are used to identify low-risk 
polymers.
    1. The polymer is not a cationic polymer nor is it reasonably 
anticipated to become a cationic polymer in a natural aquatic 
environment.
    2. The polymer does contain as an integral part of its composition 
at least two of the atomic elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, 
silicon, and sulfur.
    3. The polymer does not contain as an integral part of its 
composition, except as impurities, any element other than those listed 
in 40 CFR 723.250(d)(2)(ii).
    4. The polymer is neither designed nor can it be reasonably 
anticipated to substantially degrade, decompose, or depolymerize.
    5. The polymer is manufactured or imported from monomers and/or 
reactants that are already included on the TSCA Chemical Substance 
Inventory or manufactured under an applicable TSCA section 5 exemption.
    6. The polymer is not a water absorbing polymer with a number 
average molecular weight (MW) greater than or equal to 10,000 daltons.
    7. The polymer does not contain certain perfluoroalkyl moieties 
consisting of a CF3- or longer chain length as listed in 40 
CFR 723.250(d)(6).
    Additionally, the polymer also meets as required the following 
exemption criteria specified in 40 CFR 723.250(e).
    8. The polymer's number average MW of 2,300 is greater than 1,000 
and less than 10,000 daltons. The polymer contains less than 10% 
oligomeric material below MW 500 and less than 25% oligomeric material 
below MW 1,000, and the polymer does not contain any reactive 
functional groups.
    Thus, 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, 
ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt meets the 
criteria for a polymer to be considered low risk under 40 CFR 723.250. 
Based on its conformance to the criteria in this unit, no mammalian 
toxicity is anticipated from dietary, inhalation, or dermal exposure to 
2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and 
(1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt.

IV. Aggregate Exposures

    For the purposes of assessing potential exposure under this 
exemption, EPA considered that 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-
propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt 
could be present in all raw and processed agricultural commodities and 
drinking water, and that non-occupational non-dietary exposure was 
possible. The number average MW of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 
2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium 
salt is 2,300 daltons. Generally, a polymer of this size would be 
poorly absorbed through the intact gastrointestinal tract or through 
intact human skin. Since 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-
propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt 
conform to the criteria that identify a low-risk polymer, there are no 
concerns for risks associated with any potential exposure scenarios 
that are reasonably foreseeable. The Agency has determined that a 
tolerance is not necessary to protect the public health.

V. 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 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-
propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt 
to share a common mechanism of toxicity with any other substances, and 
2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and 
(1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium salt does not appear to produce a 
toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For the purposes of this 
tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that 2-propenoic acid, 
polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) 
benzene, ammonium salt does not have a common mechanism of toxicity 
with other

[[Page 48557]]

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 website at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.

VI. Additional Safety Factor for the Protection of Infants and Children

    Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply an 
additional tenfold 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 data base unless EPA concludes 
that a different margin of safety will be safe for infants and 
children. Due to the expected low toxicity of 2-propenoic acid, polymer 
with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, 
ammonium salt, EPA has not used a safety factor analysis to assess the 
risk. For the same reasons the additional tenfold safety factor is 
unnecessary.

VII. Determination of Safety

    Based on the conformance to the criteria used to identify a low-
risk polymer, EPA concludes that there is a reasonable certainty of no 
harm to the U.S. population, including infants and children, from 
aggregate exposure to residues of 2-propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 
2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium 
salt.

VIII. Other Considerations

A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since 
the Agency is establishing an exemption from the requirement of a 
tolerance without any numerical limitation.

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 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.
    The Codex has not established a MRL for 2-propenoic acid, polymer 
with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, 
ammonium salt.

IX. Conclusion

    Accordingly, EPA finds that exempting residues of 2-propenoic acid, 
polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) 
benzene, ammonium salt from the requirement of a tolerance will be 
safe.

X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    This action establishes 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 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 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).

XI. 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: September 7, 2018.
Michael Goodis,
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.  180.960, alphabetically add the polymer ``2-Propenoic acid, 
polymer with butyl 2-propenoate, ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) 
benzene, ammonium salt, minimum number average molecular weight (in 
amu), 2,300'' to the table to read as follows:

[[Page 48558]]

Sec.  180.960  Polymers; exemptions from the requirement of a 
tolerance.

* * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Polymer                              CAS No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
2-Propenoic acid, polymer with butyl 2-propenoate,           360564-31-4
 ethenylbenzene and (1-methylethenyl) benzene, ammonium
 salt, minimum number average molecular weight (in amu),
 2,300..................................................
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2018-20958 Filed 9-25-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
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