Fenpropathrin; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions, 70429-70434 [2019-27379]
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copy of the rule, to each House of the
Congress and to the Comptroller General
of the United States. The EPA will
submit a report containing this action
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. A major rule cannot take effect
until 60 days after it is published in the
Federal Register. This action is not a
‘‘major rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C.
804(2).
Under section 307(b)(1) of the CAA,
petitions for judicial review of this
action must be filed in the United States
Court of Appeals for the appropriate
circuit by February 21, 2020. Filing a
petition for reconsideration by the
Administrator of this final rule does not
affect the finality of this action for the
purposes of judicial review nor does it
extend the time within which a petition
for judicial review may be filed and
shall not postpone the effectiveness of
such rule or action. This action may not
be challenged later in proceedings to
enforce its requirements. See section
307(b)(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52
PART 52—APPROVAL AND
PROMULGATION OF
IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
1. The authority citation for part 52
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.
Environmental protection, Air
pollution control, Carbon monoxide,
Incorporation by reference,
Intergovernmental relations, Lead,
Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone, Particulate
matter, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Sulfur oxides, Volatile
organic compounds.
Subpart C—Alaska
2. In § 52.70, the table in paragraph (e)
is amended by:
■ a. Revising the entry for ‘‘III.II.D. CAA
Section 110 Infrastructure Certification
Documentation and Supporting
Documents’’; and
■ b. Adding an entry for ‘‘Infrastructure
Requirements—2015 Ozone NAAQS’’ at
the end of the table.
The revision and addition read as
follows:
■
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.
Dated: December 2, 2019.
Chris Hladick,
Regional Administrator, Region 10.
For the reasons set forth in the
preamble, 40 CFR part 52 is amended as
follows:
§ 52.70
*
Identification of plan.
*
*
(e) * * *
*
*
EPA-APPROVED ALASKA NONREGULATORY PROVISIONS AND QUASI-REGULATORY MEASURES
Applicable geographic or
nonattainment area
Name of SIP provision
*
*
State
submittal date
*
EPA approval date
*
Explanations
*
*
*
*
*
State of Alaska Air Quality Control Plan: Volume III. Appendices
Section II. State Air Quality
Control Program
*
III.II.D. CAA Section 110 Infrastructure Certification
Documentation and Supporting Documents.
*
*
Statewide ...........................
*
10/25/2018
*
12/23/2019, [Insert Federal
Register citation].
*
Infrastructure Requirements—2015 Ozone
NAAQS.
*
*
Statewide ...........................
*
10/25/2018
*
12/23/2019, [Insert Federal
Register citation].
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
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[EPA–HQ–OPP–2019–0358; FRL–10001–86]
Fenpropathrin; Pesticide Tolerances
for Emergency Exemptions
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
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This regulation establishes a
time-limited tolerance for residues of
fenpropathrin in or on fuzzy kiwifruit.
This action is in response to EPA’s
granting of an emergency exemption
under the Federal Insecticide,
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
authorizing use of the pesticide on fuzzy
kiwifruit. This regulation establishes a
maximum permissible level for residues
of fenpropathrin in or on this
commodity. The time-limited tolerance
expires on December 31, 2022.
DATES: This regulation is effective
December 23, 2019. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received
on or before February 21, 2020 and must
SUMMARY:
[FR Doc. 2019–27159 Filed 12–20–19; 8:45 am]
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*
*
Approves SIP for purposes of CAA
section 110(a)(2)(A), (B), (C),
(D)(i)(II), (D)(ii), (E), (F), (G), (H),
(J), (K), (L), and (M) for the 2015
Ozone NAAQS.
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–2019–0358, 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
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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, 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 Publishing
Office’s e-CFR site at https://
www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/
40tab_02.tpl. To access the OCSPP test
guidelines referenced in this document
electronically, please go to https://
www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-officechemical-safety-and-pollutionprevention-ocspp and select ‘‘Test
Guidelines for Pesticides and Toxic
Substances.’’
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C. How can I file an objection or hearing
request?
Under section 408(g) of the Federal
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA),
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–
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OPP–2019–0358 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
February 21, 2020. 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–
2019–0358, 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/where-sendcomments-epa-dockets. 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
EPA, on its own initiative, in
accordance with FFDCA sections 408(e)
and 408(l)(6) of, 21 U.S.C. 346a(e) and
346a(1)(6), is establishing a time-limited
tolerance for residues of fenpropathrin,
(alpha-cyano-3-phenoxy-benzyl 2,2,3,3
tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate), in
or on fuzzy kiwifruit at 5 parts per
million (ppm). This time-limited
tolerance expires on December 31, 2022.
Section 408(l)(6) of FFDCA requires
EPA to establish a time-limited
tolerance or exemption from the
requirement for a tolerance for pesticide
chemical residues in food that will
result from the use of a pesticide under
an emergency exemption granted by
EPA under FIFRA section 18. Such
tolerances can be established without
providing notice or period for public
comment. EPA does not intend for its
actions on FIFRA section 18 related
time-limited tolerances to set binding
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precedents for the application of FFDCA
section 408 and the safety standard to
other tolerances and exemptions.
Section 408(e) of FFDCA allows EPA to
establish a tolerance or an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance on
its own initiative, i.e., without having
received any petition from an outside
party.
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings but does not include
occupational exposure. Section
408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure
of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to infants and children from
aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue. . . .’’
Section 18 of FIFRA authorizes EPA
to exempt any Federal or State agency
from any provision of FIFRA, if EPA
determines that ‘‘emergency conditions
exist which require such exemption.’’
EPA has established regulations
governing such emergency exemptions
in 40 CFR part 166.
III. Emergency Exemption for
Fenpropathrin on Fuzzy Kiwifruit and
FFDCA Tolerances
According to the Alabama Department
of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI), in
2017 brown marmorated stink bug
(BMSB) damage was observed in a small
block of nursery stock plants. This
observation alerted the staff at the kiwi
nursery to the potential of BMSB for the
2018 crop season. ADAI claimed that in
2018, BMSB severely damaged the
kiwifruit crop, making it unmarketable.
ADAI estimated losses as high as 50%
for 2018 and projected 2019 losses to be
over $1.6 million without the use
requested under the section 18
emergency exemption. After having
reviewed the submission, EPA
determined that an emergency condition
exists for this State, and that the criteria
for approval of an emergency exemption
are met.
As part of its evaluation of the
emergency exemption application, EPA
assessed the potential risks presented by
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residues of fenpropathrin in or on fuzzy
kiwifruit. In doing so, EPA considered
the safety standard in FFDCA section
408(b)(2), and EPA decided that the
necessary tolerance under FFDCA
section 408(l)(6) would be consistent
with the safety standard and with
FIFRA section 18. Consistent with the
need to move quickly on the emergency
exemption in order to address an urgent,
non-routine situation and to ensure that
the resulting food is safe and lawful,
EPA is issuing this tolerance without
notice and opportunity for public
comment as provided in FFDCA section
408(l)(6). Although this time-limited
tolerance expires on December 31, 2022,
under FFDCA section 408(l)(5), residues
of the pesticide not in excess of the
amount specified in the tolerance
remaining in or on fuzzy kiwifruit after
that date will not be unlawful, provided
the pesticide was applied in a manner
that was lawful under FIFRA, and the
residues do not exceed a level that was
authorized by this time-limited
tolerance at the time of that application.
EPA will take action to revoke this timelimited tolerance earlier if any
experience with, scientific data on, or
other relevant information on this
pesticide indicate that the residues are
not safe.
Because this time-limited tolerance is
being approved under emergency
conditions, EPA has not made any
decisions about whether fenpropathrin
meets FIFRA’s registration requirements
for use on fuzzy kiwifruit or whether a
permanent tolerance for this use would
be appropriate. Under these
circumstances, EPA does not believe
that this time-limited tolerance decision
serves as a basis for registration of
fenpropathrin by a State for special local
needs under FIFRA section 24(c), nor
does this tolerance by itself serve as the
authority for persons in any State other
than Alabama to use this pesticide on
the applicable crops under FIFRA
section 18, absent the issuance of an
emergency exemption applicable within
that State. For additional information
regarding the emergency exemption for
fenpropathrin, contact the Agency’s
Registration Division at the address
provided under FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
Consistent with the factors specified
in FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has
reviewed the available scientific data
and other relevant information in
support of this action. EPA has
sufficient data to assess the hazards of,
and to make a determination on,
aggregate exposure expected as a result
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of this emergency exemption request
and the time-limited tolerance for
residues of fenpropathrin on fuzzy
kiwifruit at 5 ppm. EPA’s assessment of
exposures and risks associated with
establishing the time-limited tolerance
follows.
A. 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/pesticide-science-andassessing-pesticide-risks.
A summary of the toxicological
endpoints for fenpropathrin used for
human risk assessment is discussed in
Unit III.B. of the final rule published in
the Federal Register of November 28,
2012 (77 FR 70904) (FRL–9366–1).
B. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to fenpropathrin, EPA
considered exposure under the timelimited tolerance established by this
action as well as all existing
fenpropathrin tolerances in 40 CFR
180.466. EPA assessed dietary
exposures from fenpropathrin in food as
follows:
i. Acute exposure. Acute effects were
identified for fenpropathrin. In
estimating acute dietary exposure, EPA
used food consumption information
from the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) 2003–2008 National
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Health and Nutrition Examination
Survey, What We Eat in America
(NHANES/WWEIA). As to residue levels
in food, EPA used tolerance level
residues for some commodities and
refined the assessment by incorporating
distributions of field trial values and
Pesticide Data Program (PDP)
monitoring data for other commodities.
EPA translated data from some
commodities to other commodities
according to EPA’s guidance documents
for translating monitoring data and field
trial data. EPA also included estimates
of percent crop treated in the
assessment. For most processed
commodities, EPA used the Agency’s
2018 default processing factors for those
commodities for which they were
available. In some cases, EPA used
empirical processing factors.
ii. Chronic exposure. Based on the
available data for fenpropathrin, use of
the acute endpoint and dose for risk
assessment is protective for repeated
dose exposure and risk. Therefore, only
an acute dietary assessment was
performed, which is considered
protective of chronic dietary exposure.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data cited in
Unit IV.A., EPA has concluded that
fenpropathrin does not pose a cancer
risk to humans. Therefore, a dietary
exposure assessment for the purpose of
assessing cancer risk is unnecessary.
iv. Anticipated residue and percent
crop treated (PCT) information. Section
408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA
to use available data and information on
the anticipated residue levels of
pesticide residues in food and the actual
levels of pesticide residues that have
been measured in food. If EPA relies on
such information, EPA must require
pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1)
that data be provided 5 years after the
tolerance is established, modified, or
left in effect, demonstrating that the
levels in food are not above the levels
anticipated. For the present action, EPA
will issue such data call-ins as are
required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E)
and authorized under FFDCA section
408(f)(1). Data will be required to be
submitted no later than 5 years from the
date of issuance of these tolerances.
Section 408(b)(2)(F) of FFDCA states
that the Agency may use data on the
actual percent of food treated for
assessing dietary risk only if:
• Condition a: The data used are
reliable and provide a valid basis to
show what percentage of the food
derived from such crop is likely to
contain the pesticide residue.
• Condition b: The exposure estimate
does not underestimate exposure for any
significant subpopulation group.
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• Condition c: Data are available on
pesticide use and food consumption in
a particular area, and the exposure
estimate does not understate exposure
for the population in such area.
In addition, the Agency must provide
for periodic evaluation of any estimates
used. To provide for the periodic
evaluation of the estimate of PCT as
required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(F),
EPA may require registrants to submit
data on PCT.
The Agency estimated the PCT for
existing uses as follows: Apples, 15%;
apricots 2.5%; blueberries, 2.5%;
broccoli, 2.5%; Brussels sprouts, 10%;
cabbage, 2.5%; cauliflower, 2.5%;
cherries, 21%; cotton, 2.5%; cucumbers,
2.5%; grapefruit, 35%; grapes, 10%;
nectarines, 9%; oranges, 35%; peaches,
9%; pears, 10%; plums, 2.5%; prune
plums, 2.5%; squash, 2.5%;
strawberries, 50%; tangerines, 15%;
tomatoes, 10%; and watermelons, 2.5%.
In most cases, EPA uses available data
from United States Department of
Agriculture/National Agricultural
Statistics Service (USDA/NASS),
proprietary market surveys, and the
National Pesticide Use Database for the
chemical/crop combination for the most
recent 6 to 7 years. EPA uses a
maximum PCT for acute dietary risk
analysis. The maximum PCT figure is
the highest observed maximum value
reported within the recent 6 years of
available public and private market
survey data for the existing use and
rounded up to the nearest multiple of
5%.
The Agency estimated the PCT for
new uses as follows: 100% for fuzzy
kiwifruit.
The Agency believes that the three
conditions discussed in Unit IV.B1.iv.
have been met. With respect to
Condition a, PCT estimates are derived
from Federal and private market survey
data, which are reliable and have a valid
basis. As to Conditions b and c, regional
consumption information and
consumption information for significant
subpopulations is taken into account
through EPA’s computer-based model
for evaluating the exposure of
significant subpopulations including
several regional groups. Use of this
consumption information in EPA’s risk
assessment process ensures that EPA’s
exposure estimate does not understate
exposure for any significant
subpopulation group and allows the
Agency to be reasonably certain that no
regional population is exposed to
residue levels higher than those
estimated by the Agency. Other than the
data available through national food
consumption surveys, EPA does not
have available reliable information on
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the regional consumption of food to
which fenpropathrin may be applied in
a particular area.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. The Agency used water solubility
limit at 25 °C in the dietary exposure
analysis and risk assessment for
fenpropathrin in drinking water. Further
information regarding EPA drinking
water models used in pesticide
exposure assessment can be found at
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-scienceand-assessing-pesticide-risks/aboutwater-exposure-models-used-pesticide.
The water solubility limit of
fenpropathrin at 25 °C is 10.3 parts per
billion (ppb). The limit of solubility was
directly entered into the dietary
exposure model. For acute dietary risk
assessment, the water concentration
value of 10.3 ppb was used to assess the
contribution to drinking water.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The
term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in
this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure
(e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,
indoor pest control, termiticides, and
flea and tick control on pets).
Fenpropathrin is not registered for any
specific use patterns that would result
in residential exposure.
Further information regarding EPA
standard assumptions and generic
inputs for residential exposures may be
found at: https://www.epa.gov/
pesticide-science-and-assessingpesticide-risks/standard-operatingprocedures-residential-pesticide.
4. Cumulative effects from substances
with a common mechanism of toxicity.
Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA
requires that, when considering whether
to establish, modify, or revoke a
tolerance, the Agency consider
‘‘available information’’ concerning the
cumulative effects of a particular
pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other
substances that have a common
mechanism of toxicity.’’
The agency is required to consider the
cumulative risks of chemicals sharing a
common mechanism of toxicity. The
agency has determined that the
pyrethroids and pyrethrins share a
common mechanism group (see https://
www.regulations.gov; Docket ID EPA–
HQ–OPP–2008–0489–0006). The
members of this group share the ability
to interact with voltage-gated sodium
channels ultimately leading to
neurotoxicity. The cumulative risk
assessment for the pyrethroids/
pyrethrins was published on Nov. 9,
2011 (USEPA, 2011a) and is available at
https://www.regulations.gov; Docket ID
EPA–HQ–OPP–2011–0746. No
cumulative risks of concern were
identified. This assessment was
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conservative and appropriate to address
use expansions, such as this use on
kiwifruit. For information regarding the
EPA’s efforts to evaluate the risk of
exposure to pyrethroids, refer to https://
www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/reevaluation/
pyrethroids-pyrethrins.html. After all of
the chemical-specific interim decisions
have been completed for the pyrethroid
class of pesticides, an update of the
cumulative risk assessment may be
performed in association with
registration review.
C. 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 SF when reliable data
available to EPA support the choice of
a different factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.
Evidence of increased qualitative or
quantitative susceptibility of the
offspring was not observed in any of the
available animal testing guideline
toxicity studies, including the
developmental neurotoxicity study
(DNT).
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined
that reliable data show that the safety of
infants and children would be
adequately protected if the required 10X
FQPA SF were reduced to 3X for
children less than 6 years old. For the
general population, and including
children greater than 6 years old, EPA
is reducing the FQPA SF to 1X. That
decision is based on the following
findings:
i. While the database is considered to
be complete with respect to the
guideline toxicity studies for
fenpropathrin, EPA lacks additional
data to fully characterize the potential
for juvenile sensitivity to neurotoxic
effects of pyrethroids. In light of the
literature studies indicating a possibility
of increased sensitivity in juvenile rats
at high doses, EPA identified a need,
and requested proposals for, additional
non-guideline studies to evaluate the
potential for sensitivity in juvenile rats.
A group of pyrethroid registrants is
currently conducting those studies.
Pending the results of those studies,
however, the available toxicity studies
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for fenpropathrin can be used to
characterize toxic effects including
potential developmental and
reproductive toxicity, immunotoxicity,
and neurotoxicity. Acceptable
developmental toxicity studies in rats
and rabbits, reproduction studies in rats,
neurotoxicity studies (acute,
subchronic, and developmental) in rats,
and immunotoxicity studies in rats are
available. In addition, a route-specific
dermal toxicity study is available, and
the inhalation study has been waived.
ii. After reviewing the extensive body
of data and peer-reviewed literature on
pyrethroids, the Agency has reached a
number of conclusions regarding fetal
and juvenile sensitivity for pyrethroids.
Based on an evaluation of over 70
guideline toxicity studies for 24
pyrethroids submitted to the Agency,
including prenatal developmental
toxicity studies in rats and rabbits, and
pre- and postnatal multi-generation
reproduction toxicity studies and DNTs
in rats in support of pyrethroid
registrations, there is no evidence that
pyrethroids directly impact developing
fetuses. None of the studies show any
indications of fetal toxicity at doses that
do not cause maternal toxicity.
iii. Increased susceptibility was seen
in offspring animals in the DNT study
with the pyrethroid zeta-cypermethrin
(decreased pup body weights) and DNT
and reproduction studies with another
pyrethroid, beta-cyfluthrin (decreased
body weights and tremors). However,
the reductions in body weight and the
other non-specific effects occur at
higher doses than neurotoxicity, the
effect of concern for pyrethroids. The
available developmental and
reproduction guideline studies in rats
with zeta-cypermethrin did not show
increased sensitivity in the young to
neurotoxic effects. Overall, findings of
increased sensitivity in juvenile animals
in pyrethroid studies are rare. Therefore,
the residual concern for the postnatal
effects is reduced. High-dose LD50
studies (studies assessing what dose
results in lethality to 50% of the tested
population) in the scientific literature
indicate that pyrethroids can result in
increased quantitative sensitivity to
juvenile animals. Examination of
pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic
data indicates that the sensitivity
observed at high doses is related to
pyrethroid age-dependent
pharmacokinetics—the activity of
enzymes associated with the
metabolism of pyrethroids.
Furthermore, a rat physiologically-based
pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model predicts
a 3-fold increase of pyrethroid
concentration in juveniles’ brains
compared to adults at high doses. In
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vitro pharmacodynamic data and in vivo
data indicate that adult and juvenile rats
have similar responses to pyrethroids at
low doses and therefore juvenile
sensitivity is not expected at relevant
environmental exposures. Further, data
also show that the rat is a conservative
model compared to the human based on
species-specific pharmacodynamics of
homologous sodium channel isoforms.
The Agency has retained a 3X
uncertainty factor to protect for
exposures of children less than 6 years
of age based on increased quantitative
susceptibility seen in literature studies
on pyrethroid pharmacokinetics (PKs),
and the increased quantitative juvenile
susceptibility observed in high dose
studies in the literature.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties
identified in the exposure databases.
The Agency used tolerance level
residues for some commodities and
refined the assessment by incorporating
distributions of field trial values and
Pesticide Data Program (PDP)
monitoring data for other commodities.
EPA translated data from some
commodities to other commodities
according to EPA’s guidance documents
for translating monitoring data and field
trial data. EPA also included estimates
of percent crop treated in the
assessment. For most processed
commodities, EPA used the Agency’s
2018 default processing factors for those
commodities for which they were
available. In some cases, EPA used
empirical processing factors.
For this kiwifruit section 18 request,
EPA updated the 2016 dietary exposure
assessment by including kiwifruit. As
residue data are not available for
kiwifruit, the Agency translated grape
PDP data to kiwifruit. For section 18
requests, the Agency assumes the
proposed commodity will be treated to
a level of 100% across the country. As
a result, 100% crop treated was
assumed for kiwifruit. EPA also made
refinements to the residue data for dried
cranberry, dried mango, and dried
papaya. In the 2016 assessment, EPA
used tolerance level residues for these
commodities. For this section 18
request, EPA translated strawberry PDP
data to dried cranberries, avocado field
trial data to dried mango, and avocado
field trial data to dried papaya. The
Agency assumed 100% crop treated for
the three dried commodities: Cranberry,
mango, and papaya.
EPA made a conservative (protective)
assumption in the water concentration
used to assess exposure to fenpropathrin
in drinking water. These assessments
will not underestimate the exposure and
risk posed by fenpropathrin.
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70433
D. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
EPA determines whether acute and
chronic dietary pesticide exposures are
safe by comparing aggregate exposure
estimates to the acute PAD (aPAD) and
chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer
risks, EPA calculates the lifetime
probability of acquiring cancer given the
estimated aggregate exposure. Short-,
intermediate-, and chronic-term risks
are evaluated by comparing the
estimated aggregate food, water, and
residential exposure to the appropriate
PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE
exists.
1. Acute risk. Using the exposure
assumptions discussed in this unit for
acute exposure, the acute dietary
exposure from food and water to
fenpropathrin will occupy 99.5% of the
aPAD for children 1 to 2 years old, the
population group receiving the greatest
exposure.
2. Chronic risk. A chronic dietary
exposure assessment was not conducted
because the acute endpoint adequately
protects against chronic effects. There
are no residential uses for
fenpropathrin.
3. Short-term risk. Short-term
aggregate exposure takes into account
short-term residential exposure plus
chronic exposure to food and water
(considered to be a background
exposure level). A short-term adverse
effect was identified; however,
fenpropathrin is not registered for any
use patterns that would result in shortterm residential exposure. Because there
is no short-term residential exposure
and acute dietary exposure has already
been assessed under the appropriately
protective aPAD (which is at least as
protective as the POD used to assess
short-term risk), no further assessment
of short-term risk is necessary, and EPA
relies on the acute dietary risk
assessment for evaluating short-term
risk for fenpropathrin.
4. Intermediate-term risk.
Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term
non-dietary, non-occupational exposure
plus chronic exposure to food and water
(considered to be a background
exposure level). Because no
intermediate-term adverse effect was
identified, fenpropathrin is not expected
to pose an intermediate-term risk.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two
adequate rodent carcinogenicity studies,
fenpropathrin is not expected to pose a
cancer risk to humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on
these risk assessments, EPA concludes
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that there is a reasonable certainty that
no harm will result to the general
population, or to infants and children,
from aggregate exposure to
fenpropathrin residues, including
anticipated residues on fuzzy kiwifruit.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methodology
utilizing gas chromatography with
electron capture detector (GC/ECD),
Residue Method Numbers RM–22–4
(plants) and RM–22A–1 (animals), is
available to enforce the tolerance
expression.
The method may be requested from:
Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
Environmental Science Center, 701
Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
telephone number: (410) 305–2905;
email address: residuemethods@
epa.gov.
B. International Residue Limits
In making its tolerance decisions, EPA
seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with
international standards whenever
possible, consistent with U.S. food
safety standards and agricultural
practices. EPA considers the
international maximum residue limits
(MRLs) established by the Codex
Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as
required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).
The Codex Alimentarius is a joint
United Nations Food and Agriculture
Organization/World Health
Organization food standards program,
and it is recognized as an international
food safety standards-setting
organization in trade agreements to
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 an
MRL for fenpropathrin on fuzzy
kiwifruit.
VI. Conclusion
lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with RULES
Therefore, a time-limited tolerance is
established for residues of
fenpropathrin, (alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl 2,2,3,3
tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate), in
or on kiwifruit, fuzzy at 5 ppm. This
tolerance expires on December 31, 2022.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This action establishes a tolerance
under FFDCA sections 408(e) and
408(l)(6). The Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has exempted these types
of actions from review under Executive
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Jkt 250001
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,
titled ‘‘Actions Concerning Regulations
That Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use’’ (66 FR 28355, May
22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045,
titled ‘‘Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks’’ (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997),
nor is it considered a regulatory action
under Executive Order 13771, entitled
‘‘Reducing Regulations and Controlling
Regulatory Costs,’’ (82 FR 9339,
February 3, 2017). 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, titled ‘‘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 in accordance with
FFDCA sections 408(e) and 408(l)(6),
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
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Fmt 4700
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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: December 5, 2019.
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 § 180.466, revise paragraph (b) to
read as follows:
■
§ 180.466 Fenpropathrin; tolerances for
residues.
*
*
*
*
*
(b) Section 18 emergency exemptions.
Time-limited tolerances specified in
Table 2 to this paragraph (b) are
established for residues of
fenpropathrin, (alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl 2,2,3,3 tetramethylcyclopropane
carboxylate) in or on the specified
agricultural commodities, resulting from
use of the pesticide pursuant to FIFRA
section 18 emergency exemptions. The
tolerance expires on the date specified
in Table 2.
TABLE 2 TO PARAGRAPH (b)
Commodity
Parts per
million
Expiration
date
Kiwifruit, fuzzy ...
5
12/31/2022
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2019–27379 Filed 12–20–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
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[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 246 (Monday, December 23, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 70429-70434]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-27379]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2019-0358; FRL-10001-86]
Fenpropathrin; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes a time-limited tolerance for
residues of fenpropathrin in or on fuzzy kiwifruit. This action is in
response to EPA's granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal
Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of
the pesticide on fuzzy kiwifruit. This regulation establishes a maximum
permissible level for residues of fenpropathrin in or on this
commodity. The time-limited tolerance expires on December 31, 2022.
DATES: This regulation is effective December 23, 2019. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received on or before February 21, 2020
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-2019-0358, 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
[[Page 70430]]
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, 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 Publishing Office's e-CFR site at
https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl. To access the OCSPP test guidelines referenced in this
document electronically, please go to https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-office-chemical-safety-and-pollution-prevention-ocspp and select
``Test Guidelines for Pesticides and Toxic Substances.''
C. How can I file an objection or hearing request?
Under section 408(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(FFDCA), 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-
2019-0358 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 February 21, 2020. 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-2019-0358, 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/where-send-comments-epa-dockets. 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
EPA, on its own initiative, in accordance with FFDCA sections
408(e) and 408(l)(6) of, 21 U.S.C. 346a(e) and 346a(1)(6), is
establishing a time-limited tolerance for residues of fenpropathrin,
(alpha-cyano-3-phenoxy-benzyl 2,2,3,3
tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate), in or on fuzzy kiwifruit at 5
parts per million (ppm). This time-limited tolerance expires on
December 31, 2022.
Section 408(l)(6) of FFDCA requires EPA to establish a time-limited
tolerance or exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for
pesticide chemical residues in food that will result from the use of a
pesticide under an emergency exemption granted by EPA under FIFRA
section 18. Such tolerances can be established without providing notice
or period for public comment. EPA does not intend for its actions on
FIFRA section 18 related time-limited tolerances to set binding
precedents for the application of FFDCA section 408 and the safety
standard to other tolerances and exemptions. Section 408(e) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish a tolerance or an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance on its own initiative, i.e., without having
received any petition from an outside party.
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a
tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a
food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure
to the pesticide chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary
exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable
information.'' This includes exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings but does not include occupational exposure.
Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to give special
consideration to exposure of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure that there
is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to infants and
children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue. . .
.''
Section 18 of FIFRA authorizes EPA to exempt any Federal or State
agency from any provision of FIFRA, if EPA determines that ``emergency
conditions exist which require such exemption.'' EPA has established
regulations governing such emergency exemptions in 40 CFR part 166.
III. Emergency Exemption for Fenpropathrin on Fuzzy Kiwifruit and FFDCA
Tolerances
According to the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries
(ADAI), in 2017 brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) damage was observed
in a small block of nursery stock plants. This observation alerted the
staff at the kiwi nursery to the potential of BMSB for the 2018 crop
season. ADAI claimed that in 2018, BMSB severely damaged the kiwifruit
crop, making it unmarketable. ADAI estimated losses as high as 50% for
2018 and projected 2019 losses to be over $1.6 million without the use
requested under the section 18 emergency exemption. After having
reviewed the submission, EPA determined that an emergency condition
exists for this State, and that the criteria for approval of an
emergency exemption are met.
As part of its evaluation of the emergency exemption application,
EPA assessed the potential risks presented by
[[Page 70431]]
residues of fenpropathrin in or on fuzzy kiwifruit. In doing so, EPA
considered the safety standard in FFDCA section 408(b)(2), and EPA
decided that the necessary tolerance under FFDCA section 408(l)(6)
would be consistent with the safety standard and with FIFRA section 18.
Consistent with the need to move quickly on the emergency exemption in
order to address an urgent, non-routine situation and to ensure that
the resulting food is safe and lawful, EPA is issuing this tolerance
without notice and opportunity for public comment as provided in FFDCA
section 408(l)(6). Although this time-limited tolerance expires on
December 31, 2022, under FFDCA section 408(l)(5), residues of the
pesticide not in excess of the amount specified in the tolerance
remaining in or on fuzzy kiwifruit after that date will not be
unlawful, provided the pesticide was applied in a manner that was
lawful under FIFRA, and the residues do not exceed a level that was
authorized by this time-limited tolerance at the time of that
application. EPA will take action to revoke this time-limited tolerance
earlier if any experience with, scientific data on, or other relevant
information on this pesticide indicate that the residues are not safe.
Because this time-limited tolerance is being approved under
emergency conditions, EPA has not made any decisions about whether
fenpropathrin meets FIFRA's registration requirements for use on fuzzy
kiwifruit or whether a permanent tolerance for this use would be
appropriate. Under these circumstances, EPA does not believe that this
time-limited tolerance decision serves as a basis for registration of
fenpropathrin by a State for special local needs under FIFRA section
24(c), nor does this tolerance by itself serve as the authority for
persons in any State other than Alabama to use this pesticide on the
applicable crops under FIFRA section 18, absent the issuance of an
emergency exemption applicable within that State. For additional
information regarding the emergency exemption for fenpropathrin,
contact the Agency's Registration Division at the address provided
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
Consistent with the factors specified in FFDCA section
408(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available scientific data and other
relevant information in support of this action. EPA has sufficient data
to assess the hazards of, and to make a determination on, aggregate
exposure expected as a result of this emergency exemption request and
the time-limited tolerance for residues of fenpropathrin on fuzzy
kiwifruit at 5 ppm. EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated
with establishing the time-limited tolerance follows.
A. 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/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks.
A summary of the toxicological endpoints for fenpropathrin used for
human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III.B. of the final rule
published in the Federal Register of November 28, 2012 (77 FR 70904)
(FRL-9366-1).
B. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to fenpropathrin, EPA considered exposure under the time-
limited tolerance established by this action as well as all existing
fenpropathrin tolerances in 40 CFR 180.466. EPA assessed dietary
exposures from fenpropathrin in food as follows:
i. Acute exposure. Acute effects were identified for fenpropathrin.
In estimating acute dietary exposure, EPA used food consumption
information from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
2003-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, What We Eat
in America (NHANES/WWEIA). As to residue levels in food, EPA used
tolerance level residues for some commodities and refined the
assessment by incorporating distributions of field trial values and
Pesticide Data Program (PDP) monitoring data for other commodities. EPA
translated data from some commodities to other commodities according to
EPA's guidance documents for translating monitoring data and field
trial data. EPA also included estimates of percent crop treated in the
assessment. For most processed commodities, EPA used the Agency's 2018
default processing factors for those commodities for which they were
available. In some cases, EPA used empirical processing factors.
ii. Chronic exposure. Based on the available data for
fenpropathrin, use of the acute endpoint and dose for risk assessment
is protective for repeated dose exposure and risk. Therefore, only an
acute dietary assessment was performed, which is considered protective
of chronic dietary exposure.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data cited in Unit IV.A., EPA has
concluded that fenpropathrin does not pose a cancer risk to humans.
Therefore, a dietary exposure assessment for the purpose of assessing
cancer risk is unnecessary.
iv. Anticipated residue and percent crop treated (PCT) information.
Section 408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA to use available data and
information on the anticipated residue levels of pesticide residues in
food and the actual levels of pesticide residues that have been
measured in food. If EPA relies on such information, EPA must require
pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1) that data be provided 5 years after
the tolerance is established, modified, or left in effect,
demonstrating that the levels in food are not above the levels
anticipated. For the present action, EPA will issue such data call-ins
as are required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E) and authorized under
FFDCA section 408(f)(1). Data will be required to be submitted no later
than 5 years from the date of issuance of these tolerances.
Section 408(b)(2)(F) of FFDCA states that the Agency may use data
on the actual percent of food treated for assessing dietary risk only
if:
Condition a: The data used are reliable and provide a
valid basis to show what percentage of the food derived from such crop
is likely to contain the pesticide residue.
Condition b: The exposure estimate does not underestimate
exposure for any significant subpopulation group.
[[Page 70432]]
Condition c: Data are available on pesticide use and food
consumption in a particular area, and the exposure estimate does not
understate exposure for the population in such area.
In addition, the Agency must provide for periodic evaluation of any
estimates used. To provide for the periodic evaluation of the estimate
of PCT as required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(F), EPA may require
registrants to submit data on PCT.
The Agency estimated the PCT for existing uses as follows: Apples,
15%; apricots 2.5%; blueberries, 2.5%; broccoli, 2.5%; Brussels
sprouts, 10%; cabbage, 2.5%; cauliflower, 2.5%; cherries, 21%; cotton,
2.5%; cucumbers, 2.5%; grapefruit, 35%; grapes, 10%; nectarines, 9%;
oranges, 35%; peaches, 9%; pears, 10%; plums, 2.5%; prune plums, 2.5%;
squash, 2.5%; strawberries, 50%; tangerines, 15%; tomatoes, 10%; and
watermelons, 2.5%.
In most cases, EPA uses available data from United States
Department of Agriculture/National Agricultural Statistics Service
(USDA/NASS), proprietary market surveys, and the National Pesticide Use
Database for the chemical/crop combination for the most recent 6 to 7
years. EPA uses a maximum PCT for acute dietary risk analysis. The
maximum PCT figure is the highest observed maximum value reported
within the recent 6 years of available public and private market survey
data for the existing use and rounded up to the nearest multiple of 5%.
The Agency estimated the PCT for new uses as follows: 100% for
fuzzy kiwifruit.
The Agency believes that the three conditions discussed in Unit
IV.B1.iv. have been met. With respect to Condition a, PCT estimates are
derived from Federal and private market survey data, which are reliable
and have a valid basis. As to Conditions b and c, regional consumption
information and consumption information for significant subpopulations
is taken into account through EPA's computer-based model for evaluating
the exposure of significant subpopulations including several regional
groups. Use of this consumption information in EPA's risk assessment
process ensures that EPA's exposure estimate does not understate
exposure for any significant subpopulation group and allows the Agency
to be reasonably certain that no regional population is exposed to
residue levels higher than those estimated by the Agency. Other than
the data available through national food consumption surveys, EPA does
not have available reliable information on the regional consumption of
food to which fenpropathrin may be applied in a particular area.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used water
solubility limit at 25 [deg]C in the dietary exposure analysis and risk
assessment for fenpropathrin in drinking water. Further information
regarding EPA drinking water models used in pesticide exposure
assessment can be found at https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/about-water-exposure-models-used-pesticide.
The water solubility limit of fenpropathrin at 25 [deg]C is 10.3
parts per billion (ppb). The limit of solubility was directly entered
into the dietary exposure model. For acute dietary risk assessment, the
water concentration value of 10.3 ppb was used to assess the
contribution to drinking water.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary
exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control,
termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets). Fenpropathrin is not
registered for any specific use patterns that would result in
residential exposure.
Further information regarding EPA standard assumptions and generic
inputs for residential exposures may be found at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/standard-operating-procedures-residential-pesticide.
4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
The agency is required to consider the cumulative risks of
chemicals sharing a common mechanism of toxicity. The agency has
determined that the pyrethroids and pyrethrins share a common mechanism
group (see https://www.regulations.gov; Docket ID EPA-HQ-OPP-2008-0489-
0006). The members of this group share the ability to interact with
voltage-gated sodium channels ultimately leading to neurotoxicity. The
cumulative risk assessment for the pyrethroids/pyrethrins was published
on Nov. 9, 2011 (USEPA, 2011a) and is available at https://www.regulations.gov; Docket ID EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0746. No cumulative
risks of concern were identified. This assessment was conservative and
appropriate to address use expansions, such as this use on kiwifruit.
For information regarding the EPA's efforts to evaluate the risk of
exposure to pyrethroids, refer to https://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/reevaluation/pyrethroids-pyrethrins.html. After all of the chemical-
specific interim decisions have been completed for the pyrethroid class
of pesticides, an update of the cumulative risk assessment may be
performed in association with registration review.
C. 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 SF when reliable data
available to EPA support the choice of a different factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. Evidence of increased
qualitative or quantitative susceptibility of the offspring was not
observed in any of the available animal testing guideline toxicity
studies, including the developmental neurotoxicity study (DNT).
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show that the
safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the
required 10X FQPA SF were reduced to 3X for children less than 6 years
old. For the general population, and including children greater than 6
years old, EPA is reducing the FQPA SF to 1X. That decision is based on
the following findings:
i. While the database is considered to be complete with respect to
the guideline toxicity studies for fenpropathrin, EPA lacks additional
data to fully characterize the potential for juvenile sensitivity to
neurotoxic effects of pyrethroids. In light of the literature studies
indicating a possibility of increased sensitivity in juvenile rats at
high doses, EPA identified a need, and requested proposals for,
additional non-guideline studies to evaluate the potential for
sensitivity in juvenile rats. A group of pyrethroid registrants is
currently conducting those studies. Pending the results of those
studies, however, the available toxicity studies
[[Page 70433]]
for fenpropathrin can be used to characterize toxic effects including
potential developmental and reproductive toxicity, immunotoxicity, and
neurotoxicity. Acceptable developmental toxicity studies in rats and
rabbits, reproduction studies in rats, neurotoxicity studies (acute,
subchronic, and developmental) in rats, and immunotoxicity studies in
rats are available. In addition, a route-specific dermal toxicity study
is available, and the inhalation study has been waived.
ii. After reviewing the extensive body of data and peer-reviewed
literature on pyrethroids, the Agency has reached a number of
conclusions regarding fetal and juvenile sensitivity for pyrethroids.
Based on an evaluation of over 70 guideline toxicity studies for 24
pyrethroids submitted to the Agency, including prenatal developmental
toxicity studies in rats and rabbits, and pre- and postnatal multi-
generation reproduction toxicity studies and DNTs in rats in support of
pyrethroid registrations, there is no evidence that pyrethroids
directly impact developing fetuses. None of the studies show any
indications of fetal toxicity at doses that do not cause maternal
toxicity.
iii. Increased susceptibility was seen in offspring animals in the
DNT study with the pyrethroid zeta-cypermethrin (decreased pup body
weights) and DNT and reproduction studies with another pyrethroid,
beta-cyfluthrin (decreased body weights and tremors). However, the
reductions in body weight and the other non-specific effects occur at
higher doses than neurotoxicity, the effect of concern for pyrethroids.
The available developmental and reproduction guideline studies in rats
with zeta-cypermethrin did not show increased sensitivity in the young
to neurotoxic effects. Overall, findings of increased sensitivity in
juvenile animals in pyrethroid studies are rare. Therefore, the
residual concern for the postnatal effects is reduced. High-dose LD50
studies (studies assessing what dose results in lethality to 50% of the
tested population) in the scientific literature indicate that
pyrethroids can result in increased quantitative sensitivity to
juvenile animals. Examination of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic
data indicates that the sensitivity observed at high doses is related
to pyrethroid age-dependent pharmacokinetics--the activity of enzymes
associated with the metabolism of pyrethroids. Furthermore, a rat
physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model predicts a 3-fold
increase of pyrethroid concentration in juveniles' brains compared to
adults at high doses. In vitro pharmacodynamic data and in vivo data
indicate that adult and juvenile rats have similar responses to
pyrethroids at low doses and therefore juvenile sensitivity is not
expected at relevant environmental exposures. Further, data also show
that the rat is a conservative model compared to the human based on
species-specific pharmacodynamics of homologous sodium channel
isoforms. The Agency has retained a 3X uncertainty factor to protect
for exposures of children less than 6 years of age based on increased
quantitative susceptibility seen in literature studies on pyrethroid
pharmacokinetics (PKs), and the increased quantitative juvenile
susceptibility observed in high dose studies in the literature.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties identified in the exposure
databases. The Agency used tolerance level residues for some
commodities and refined the assessment by incorporating distributions
of field trial values and Pesticide Data Program (PDP) monitoring data
for other commodities. EPA translated data from some commodities to
other commodities according to EPA's guidance documents for translating
monitoring data and field trial data. EPA also included estimates of
percent crop treated in the assessment. For most processed commodities,
EPA used the Agency's 2018 default processing factors for those
commodities for which they were available. In some cases, EPA used
empirical processing factors.
For this kiwifruit section 18 request, EPA updated the 2016 dietary
exposure assessment by including kiwifruit. As residue data are not
available for kiwifruit, the Agency translated grape PDP data to
kiwifruit. For section 18 requests, the Agency assumes the proposed
commodity will be treated to a level of 100% across the country. As a
result, 100% crop treated was assumed for kiwifruit. EPA also made
refinements to the residue data for dried cranberry, dried mango, and
dried papaya. In the 2016 assessment, EPA used tolerance level residues
for these commodities. For this section 18 request, EPA translated
strawberry PDP data to dried cranberries, avocado field trial data to
dried mango, and avocado field trial data to dried papaya. The Agency
assumed 100% crop treated for the three dried commodities: Cranberry,
mango, and papaya.
EPA made a conservative (protective) assumption in the water
concentration used to assess exposure to fenpropathrin in drinking
water. These assessments will not underestimate the exposure and risk
posed by fenpropathrin.
D. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide
exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the
acute PAD (aPAD) and chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer risks, EPA
calculates the lifetime probability of acquiring cancer given the
estimated aggregate exposure. Short-, intermediate-, and chronic-term
risks are evaluated by comparing the estimated aggregate food, water,
and residential exposure to the appropriate PODs to ensure that an
adequate MOE exists.
1. Acute risk. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this
unit for acute exposure, the acute dietary exposure from food and water
to fenpropathrin will occupy 99.5% of the aPAD for children 1 to 2
years old, the population group receiving the greatest exposure.
2. Chronic risk. A chronic dietary exposure assessment was not
conducted because the acute endpoint adequately protects against
chronic effects. There are no residential uses for fenpropathrin.
3. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food
and water (considered to be a background exposure level). A short-term
adverse effect was identified; however, fenpropathrin is not registered
for any use patterns that would result in short-term residential
exposure. Because there is no short-term residential exposure and acute
dietary exposure has already been assessed under the appropriately
protective aPAD (which is at least as protective as the POD used to
assess short-term risk), no further assessment of short-term risk is
necessary, and EPA relies on the acute dietary risk assessment for
evaluating short-term risk for fenpropathrin.
4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term non-dietary, non-occupational
exposure plus chronic exposure to food and water (considered to be a
background exposure level). Because no intermediate-term adverse effect
was identified, fenpropathrin is not expected to pose an intermediate-
term risk.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two adequate rodent carcinogenicity
studies, fenpropathrin is not expected to pose a cancer risk to humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA
concludes
[[Page 70434]]
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the
general population, or to infants and children, from aggregate exposure
to fenpropathrin residues, including anticipated residues on fuzzy
kiwifruit.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methodology utilizing gas chromatography with
electron capture detector (GC/ECD), Residue Method Numbers RM-22-4
(plants) and RM-22A-1 (animals), is available to enforce the tolerance
expression.
The method may be requested from: Chief, Analytical Chemistry
Branch, Environmental Science Center, 701 Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD
20755-5350; telephone number: (410) 305-2905; email address:
[email protected].
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 an MRL for fenpropathrin on fuzzy
kiwifruit.
VI. Conclusion
Therefore, a time-limited tolerance is established for residues of
fenpropathrin, (alpha-cyano-3-phenoxy-benzyl 2,2,3,3
tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxylate), in or on kiwifruit, fuzzy at 5
ppm. This tolerance expires on December 31, 2022.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This action establishes a tolerance under FFDCA sections 408(e) and
408(l)(6). 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, titled
``Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy
Supply, Distribution, or Use'' (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive
Order 13045, titled ``Protection of Children from Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks'' (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997), nor is it
considered a regulatory action under Executive Order 13771, entitled
``Reducing Regulations and Controlling Regulatory Costs,'' (82 FR 9339,
February 3, 2017). 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, titled ``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 in accordance
with FFDCA sections 408(e) and 408(l)(6), 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).
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: December 5, 2019.
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. 180.466, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:
Sec. 180.466 Fenpropathrin; tolerances for residues.
* * * * *
(b) Section 18 emergency exemptions. Time-limited tolerances
specified in Table 2 to this paragraph (b) are established for residues
of fenpropathrin, (alpha-cyano-3-phenoxy-benzyl 2,2,3,3
tetramethylcyclopropane carboxylate) in or on the specified
agricultural commodities, resulting from use of the pesticide pursuant
to FIFRA section 18 emergency exemptions. The tolerance expires on the
date specified in Table 2.
Table 2 to Paragraph (b)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts per Expiration
Commodity million date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kiwifruit, fuzzy............................ 5 12/31/2022
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2019-27379 Filed 12-20-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P