Cyazofamid; Pesticide Tolerances, 15387-15391 [2020-04747]
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 53 / Wednesday, March 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2018–0832; FRL–10005–85]
Cyazofamid; Pesticide Tolerances
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This regulation establishes
tolerances for residues of cyazofamid in
or on multiple commodities that are
identified and discussed later in this
document. The Interregional Project
Number 4 (IR–4) requested these
tolerances under the Federal Food,
Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
DATES: This regulation is effective
March 18, 2020. Objections and requests
for hearings must be received on or
before May 18, 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).
SUMMARY:
The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2018–0832, 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, 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:
ADDRESSES:
I. General Information
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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
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provides a guide to help readers
determine whether this document
applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to
other related information?
You may access a frequently updated
electronic version of EPA’s tolerance
regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through
the Government Printing Office’s e-CFR
site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/
40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing
request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
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–2018–0832 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 May 18, 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–
2018–0832, 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.
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• 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. Summary of Petitioned-For
Tolerance
In the Federal Register of May 9, 2019
(84 FR 20320) (FRL–9992–36), EPA
issued a document pursuant to FFDCA
section 408(d)(3), 21 U.S.C. 346a(d)(3),
announcing the filing of a pesticide
petition (PP 8E8718) by IR–4, Rutgers,
The State University of New Jersey, 500
College Road East, Suite 201 W,
Princeton, New Jersey 08540. The
petition requested that 40 CFR 180.601
be amended by establishing tolerances
for residues of the fungicide
cyazofamid, 4-chloro-2-cyano-N,Ndimethyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-1Himidazole-1-sulfonamide, in or on
brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4–16B
at 15.0 parts per million (ppm); ginseng
at 0.2 ppm; kohlrabi at 1.5 ppm; leafy
greens subgroup 4–16A at 10.0 ppm;
and vegetable, brassica, head and stem,
group 5–16 at 1.5 ppm. Upon the
establishment of those tolerances, the
petition requested the removal of
existing tolerances for residues of the
fungicide cyazofamid in or on brassica,
head and stem, subgroup 5A at 1.2 ppm;
brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 5B at
12.0 ppm; leafy greens subgroup 4A at
10 ppm; and turnip, greens at 12.0 ppm.
That document referenced a summary of
the petition prepared by ISK
Biosciences Corporation, the registrant,
which is available in the docket, https://
www.regulations.gov. Two comments
were received on the notice of filing.
EPA’s response to these comments is
discussed in Unit IV.C.
Based upon review of the data
supporting the petition and pursuant to
its authority in FFDCA section
408(d)(4)(A)(i), EPA is establishing three
of the tolerances at a different level than
requested. The reasons for these changes
are explained in Unit IV.D.
III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
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pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Section
408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure
of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to infants and children from
aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue. . . .’’
Consistent with FFDCA section
408(b)(2)(D), and the factors specified in
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has
reviewed the available scientific data
and other relevant information in
support of this action. EPA has
sufficient data to assess the hazards of
and to make a determination on
aggregate exposure for cyazofamid
including exposure resulting from the
tolerances established by this action.
EPA’s assessment of exposures and risks
associated with cyazofamid follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity data and considered its validity,
completeness, and reliability as well as
the relationship of the results of the
studies to human risk. EPA has also
considered available information
concerning the variability of the
sensitivities of major identifiable
subgroups of consumers, including
infants and children.
Cyazofamid belongs to a chemical
class based on the cyanoimidazole and
sulfonamide moieties. It specifically
interferes with the cytochrome bc1
complex (ubiquinol cytochrome c
oxidoreductase) in the mitochondrial
respiratory chain of oomycetes fungi.
The mechanism of toxicity in mammals
is not clear. There were no treatmentrelated adverse effects in the acute and
subchronic neurotoxicity studies.
However, following repeated
administration in more than one
species, toxicological effects were
observed primarily in the kidney. There
were no effects observed up to the limit
dose (1,000 mg/kg) in the dermal
toxicity study. In dogs, there were no
major toxicity findings.
In the prenatal developmental toxicity
study in rats, there was a marginal
increased incidence of bent ribs
observed in the high-dose (1,000 mg/kg/
day) without any maternal effects,
indicating quantitative susceptibility
following in utero exposure.
Cyazofamid is classified as ‘‘not likely
to be carcinogenic to humans’’ based on
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the lack of evidence of carcinogenicity
in both the rat and the mouse studies.
Additionally, cyazofamid does not
appear to be mutagenic, based on
several negative in vivo and in vitro
studies.
Specific information on the studies
received and the nature of the adverse
effects caused by cyazofamid as well as
the no-observed-adverse-effect-level
(NOAEL) and the lowest-observedadverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from the
toxicity studies can be found at https://
www.regulations.gov in document
‘‘Cyazofamid. Human Health Risk
Assessment for New Uses of Cyazofamid
on Ginseng, and Greenhouse Cucumbers
and Crop Group Conversions on
Vegetable, Brassica, Head and Stem,
Group 5–16; Brassica, Leafy Greens,
Subgroup 4–16B; Leafy Greens,
Subgroup 4–16A; and to Establish an
Individual Tolerance on Kohlrabi’’ on
page 20 in docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2018–0832.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/
Levels of Concern
Once a pesticide’s toxicological
profile is determined, EPA identifies
toxicological points of departure (POD)
and levels of concern to use in
evaluating the risk posed by human
exposure to the pesticide. For hazards
that have a threshold below which there
is no appreciable risk, the toxicological
POD is used as the basis for derivation
of reference values for risk assessment.
PODs are developed based on a careful
analysis of the doses in each
toxicological study to determine the
dose at which no adverse effects are
observed (the NOAEL) and the lowest
dose at which adverse effects of concern
are identified (the LOAEL). Uncertainty/
safety factors are used in conjunction
with the POD to calculate a safe
exposure level—generally referred to as
a population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a
reference dose (RfD)—and a safe margin
of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold
risks, the Agency assumes that any
amount of exposure will lead to some
degree of risk. Thus, the Agency
estimates risk in terms of the probability
of an occurrence of the adverse effect
expected in a lifetime. For more
information on the general principles
EPA uses in risk characterization and a
complete description of the risk
assessment process, see https://
www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-andassessing-pesticide-risks.
A summary of the toxicological
endpoints for cyazofamid used for
human risk assessment is discussed in
Unit III.B. of the final rule published in
the Federal Register of February 3, 2016
(81 FR 5602) (FRL–9940–46).
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C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to cyazofamid, EPA
considered exposure under the
petitioned-for tolerances as well as all
existing cyazofamid tolerances in 40
CFR 180.601. EPA assessed dietary
exposures from cyazofamid in food as
follows:
i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute
dietary exposure and risk assessments
are performed for a food-use pesticide,
if a toxicological study has indicated the
possibility of an effect of concern
occurring as a result of a 1-day or single
exposure. No such effects were
identified in the toxicological studies
for cyazofamid; therefore, a quantitative
acute dietary exposure assessment is
unnecessary.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting
the chronic dietary exposure
assessment, EPA used the food
consumption data from the USDA 2003–
2008 National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey, What We Eat in
America, (NHANES/WWEIA). As to
residue levels in food, EPA included
tolerance-level residues for all crops,
default processing factors and assumed
that 100% of the crops were treated
(100% CT) with cyazofamid.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data cited in
Unit III.A., EPA has concluded that
cyazofamid 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. EPA did
not use anticipated residue and/or PCT
information in the dietary assessment
for cyazofamid. Tolerance-level residues
and/or 100% CT were assumed for all
food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. The Agency used screening-level
water exposure models in the dietary
exposure analysis and risk assessment
for cyazofamid in drinking water. These
simulation models take into account
data on the physical, chemical, and fate/
transport characteristics of cyazofamid.
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.
Based on the Pesticide Root Zone
Model/Exposure Analysis Modeling
System (PRZM/EXAMS) and Pesticide
Root Zone Model Ground Water (PRZM
GW), the estimated drinking water
concentrations (EDWCs) of cyazofamid
for chronic exposures for non-cancer
assessments are estimated to be 133.5
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ppb for surface water and 211 ppb for
ground water.
Modeled estimates of drinking water
concentrations were directly entered
into the dietary exposure model. For
chronic dietary risk assessment, the
water concentration value of 211 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).
Cyazofamid is currently registered for
the following uses that could result in
residential exposures: Turf and
ornamentals. EPA assumes there is no
residential handler exposure because
labels require users to wear personal
protective equipment. Post application
exposure (to turf and ornamental) from
hand-to-mouth exposures was greatest
to children 1 to less than 2 years old.
Further information regarding EPA
standard assumptions and generic
inputs for residential exposures may be
found at https://www.epa.gov/pesticidescience-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/
standard-operating-proceduresresidential-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.’’ Unlike other
pesticides for which EPA has followed
a cumulative risk approach based on a
common mechanism of toxicity, EPA
has not made a common mechanism of
toxicity finding as to cyazofamid and
any other substances and cyazofamid
does not appear to produce a toxic
metabolite produced by other
substances. For the purposes of this
action, therefore, EPA has not assumed
that cyazofamid has a common
mechanism of toxicity with other
substances. For information regarding
EPA’s efforts to determine which
chemicals have a common mechanism
of toxicity and to evaluate the
cumulative effects of such chemicals,
see EPA’s website at https://
www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-andassessing-pesticide-risks/cumulativeassessment-risk-pesticides.
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D. Safety Factor for Infants and
Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply
an additional tenfold (10X) margin of
safety for infants and children in the
case of threshold effects to account for
prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the
completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines
based on reliable data that a different
margin of safety will be safe for infants
and children. This additional margin of
safety is commonly referred to as the
FQPA Safety Factor (SF). In applying
this provision, EPA either retains the
default value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable
data available to EPA support the choice
of a different factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.
In the prenatal developmental toxicity
study in rats, there was a marginal
increased incidence of bent ribs
observed at the high-dose (1,000 mg/kg/
day) without any maternal effects,
indicating quantitative susceptibility
following in utero exposure. There is
low concern for this effect because (1)
bent ribs are a developmental variation
rather than a malformation; (2) the
increased incidence was only
marginally increased over historical and
concurrent controls; (3) similar effects
were not seen in the rabbit
developmental study; and (4) the effect
was only observed at the limit dose.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined
that reliable data show the safety of
infants and children would be
adequately protected if the FQPA SF
were reduced to 1X. That decision is
based on the following findings:
i. The toxicity database for
cyazofamid is complete.
ii. There is no indication that
cyazofamid is a neurotoxic chemical
and there is no need for a
developmental neurotoxicity study or
additional UFs to account for
neurotoxicity.
iii. Although there is evidence of
quantitative susceptibility in the
developmental rat study, the concern is
low because the effects occur at the
limit dose and are well-characterized
with clearly established no observed
adverse-effect level (NOAEL)/lowestobserved adverse-effect level (LOAEL)
values and selected endpoints address
the observed effects.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties
identified in the exposure databases.
The dietary food exposure assessments
were performed based on 100% CT,
default processing factors and assumed
tolerance-level residues for all crops.
EPA made conservative (protective)
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assumptions in the ground and surface
water modeling used to assess exposure
to cyazofamid in drinking water. EPA
used similarly conservative assumptions
to assess post application exposure of
children as well as incidental oral
exposure of toddlers. These assessments
will not underestimate the exposure and
risks posed by cyazofamid.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
EPA determines whether acute and
chronic dietary pesticide exposures are
safe by comparing aggregate exposure
estimates to the acute 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. An acute aggregate risk
assessment takes into account acute
exposure estimates from dietary
consumption of food and drinking
water. No adverse effect resulting from
a single oral exposure was identified
and no acute dietary endpoint was
selected. Therefore, cyazofamid is not
expected to pose an acute risk.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure
assumptions described in this unit for
chronic exposure, EPA has concluded
that chronic exposure to cyazofamid
from food and water will utilize 2.0% of
the cPAD for children 1–2 years old, the
population group receiving the greatest
exposure. Based on the explanation in
Unit III.C.3., regarding residential use
patterns, chronic residential exposure to
residues of cyazofamid is not expected.
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). Cyazofamid is currently
registered for uses that could result in
short-term residential exposure, and the
Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic
exposure through food and water with
short-term residential exposures to
cyazofamid.
Using the exposure assumptions
described in this unit for short-term
exposures, EPA has concluded the
combined short-term food, water, and
residential exposures result in aggregate
MOEs of 6,200 for children 1 to less
than 2 years old for dietary exposure
(which is considered a background
exposure) and incidental oral (hand-tomouth) exposure from contact with
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treated turf. Because EPA’s level of
concern for cyazofamid is an MOE of
100 or below, these MOEs are not of
concern.
4. Intermediate-term risk.
Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term
residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered
to be a background exposure level). An
intermediate-term adverse effect was
identified; however, cyazofamid is not
registered for any use patterns that
would result in intermediate-term
residential exposure. Intermediate-term
risk is assessed based on intermediateterm residential exposure plus chronic
dietary exposure. Because there is no
intermediate-term residential exposure
and chronic dietary exposure has
already been assessed under the
appropriately protective cPAD (which is
at least as protective as the POD used to
assess intermediate-term risk), no
further assessment of intermediate-term
risk is necessary, and EPA relies on the
chronic dietary risk assessment for
evaluating intermediate-term risk for
cyazofamid.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two
adequate rodent carcinogenicity studies,
cyazofamid is not expected to pose a
cancer risk to humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on
these risk assessments, EPA concludes
that there is a reasonable certainty that
no harm will result to the general
population, or to infants and children
from aggregate exposure to cyazofamid
residues.
IV. Other Considerations
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A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methods are
available to determine residues of
cyazofamid and its metabolite CCIM (4chloro-5-(4-methylphenyl)-1Himidazole-2-carbonitrile) in various
commodities. An enforcement method
for non-fatty commodities is available,
FDA’s Multiresidue Protocol D (without
cleanup). The method completely
recovers cyazofamid and its metabolite
CCIM. In addition, the highperformance liquid chromatography
method with ultraviolent light detection
(HPLC/UV) method is acceptable for use
as a single analyte enforcement method
provided a confirmatory method such as
the liquid chromatography method with
tandem mass-spectrometric detection
(LC/MS/MS) method is used.
The methods may be requested from:
Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
Environmental Science Center, 701
Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
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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 established MRLs for
cyazofamid in or on Brassica (cole or
cabbage) vegetables, head cabbage, and
flowerhead Brassicas at 1.5 ppm; leaves
of Brassicaceae at 15 ppm; and leafy
vegetables (except Brassica leafy
vegetables) at 10 ppm. The U.S.
tolerances being established are
harmonized with these Codex MRLs,
specifically vegetable, brassica, head
and stem, group 5–16 at 1.5 ppm;
kohlrabi at 1.5 ppm; brassica leafy
greens, subgroup 4–16B at 15 ppm; and
leafy greens subgroup 4–16A at 10 ppm.
There is no Codex MRL for ginseng.
C. Response to Comments
EPA received two comments to the
Notice of Filing, generally opposed to
any cyazofamid residues on leafy
greens. Although the Agency recognizes
that some individuals believe that
pesticides should be banned on
agricultural crops, the existing legal
framework provided by section 408 of
the FFDCA states that tolerances may be
set when persons seeking such
tolerances or exemptions have
demonstrated that the pesticide meets
the safety standard imposed by that
statute. These comments appear to be
directed at the underlying statute and
not EPA’s implementation of it; the
comments provide no information
relevant the Agency’s safety
determination.
D. Revisions to Petitioned-For
Tolerances
EPA is establishing tolerances for
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4–16B
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and Leafy greens subgroup 4–16A at
different levels than requested to be
consistent with the Organisation for
Economic Cooperation and
Development (OECD) rounding class
practice. For ginseng, the petitioner’s
proposed tolerance was adjusted
because storage stability data indicated
a decline in residues of CCIM.
Organization for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD) statistical
calculation procedures applied to the
corrected residue data provided a
different value (0.3 ppm) than the
proposed value (0.2 ppm). Therefore,
EPA is establishing the tolerance for
ginseng at 0.3 ppm.
V. Conclusion
Therefore, tolerances are established
for residues of cyazofamid, 4-chloro-2cyano-N,N-dimethyl-5-(4methylphenyl)-1H-imidazole-1sulfonamide, in or on Brassica, leafy
greens, subgroup 4–16B at 15 ppm;
Ginseng at 0.3 ppm; Kohlrabi at 1.5
ppm; Leafy greens subgroup 4–16A at
10 ppm; and Vegetable, brassica, head
and stem, group 5–16 at 1.5 ppm.
Additionally, EPA is removing the
established tolerances for Brassica, head
and stem, subgroup 5A at 1.2 ppm;
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 5B at
12.0 ppm; Leafy greens subgroup 4A at
10 ppm; and Turnip, greens at 12.0
ppm. Finally, as a housekeeping
measure, EPA is removing the expired
exemption in paragraph (b) Section 18
emergency exemptions for Basil, dried
at 144 ppm, as it expired on December
31, 2014.
VI. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This action establishes tolerances
under FFDCA section 408(d) in
response to a petition submitted to the
Agency. The Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has exempted these types
of actions from review under Executive
Order 12866, entitled ‘‘Regulatory
Planning and Review’’ (58 FR 51735,
October 4, 1993). Because this 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), 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
E:\FR\FM\18MRR1.SGM
18MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 53 / Wednesday, March 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
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 tolerances 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).
jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES
VII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review
Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA will
submit a report containing this rule and
other required information to the U.S.
Senate, the U.S. House of
Representatives, and the Comptroller
General of the United States prior to
publication of the rule in the Federal
Register. This action is not a ‘‘major
rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
VerDate Sep<11>2014
18:10 Mar 17, 2020
Jkt 250001
15391
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
Dated: March 2, 2020.
Michael Goodis,
Director, Registration Division, Office of
Pesticide Programs.
Clarification of Magnuson-Stevens
Fishery Conservation and Management
Act Regulation Regarding Monitor
National Marine Sanctuary; Final
Rulemaking
PART 180—[AMENDED]
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
2. In § 180.601:
a. In the table in paragraph (a):
■ i. Remove the entries: Brassica, head
and stem, subgroup 5A; and Brassica,
leafy greens, subgroup 5B;
■ ii. Add alphabetically the entries:
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4–16B;
Ginseng; and Kohlrabi;
■ iii. Remove the entry Leafy greens
subgroup 4A;
■ iv. Add alphabetically the entry Leafy
greens subgroup 4–16A;
■ v. Remove the entry Turnip, greens;
and
■ vi. Add alphabetically the entry
Vegetable, brassica, head and stem,
group 5–16; and
■ b. Remove and reserve paragraph (b).
The additions and revision read as
follows:
■
■
§ 180.601 Cyazofamid; tolerances for
residues.
(a) * * *
TABLE TO PARAGRAPH (A)
Parts per
million
Commodity
*
*
*
*
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup
4–16B ......................................
*
*
*
*
*
Ginseng ......................................
*
*
*
*
*
Kohlrabi .......................................
Leafy greens subgroup 4–16A ...
Vegetable, brassica, head and
stem, group 5–16 ....................
*
*
*
*
*
*
15
0.3
1.5
10
1.5
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2020–04747 Filed 3–17–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
PO 00000
Frm 00045
Fmt 4700
National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
1. The authority citation for part 180
continues to read as follows:
■
*
[Docket No. 200313–0080]
RIN 0648–BI82
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is
amended as follows:
*
50 CFR Part 600
Sfmt 4700
This final rule will clarify a
regulation adopted under the
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act
(MSA), which cross-references and
incorrectly interprets regulations
adopted under the National Marine
Sanctuaries Act. The Monitor National
Marine Sanctuary (Sanctuary)
regulations currently prohibit some, but
not all, fishing in the Sanctuary. NMFS
is clarifying its regulation which
incorrectly interprets Sanctuary
regulations to prohibit all fishing in the
Sanctuary by removing the fishing
prohibition text and cross-referencing
regulations for national marine
sanctuaries.
DATES: The final rule is effective March
18, 2020.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Chris Wright, Fishery Policy Analyst,
301–427–8504, or via email
chris.wright@noaa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
Background
The Sanctuary was designated as the
nation’s first national marine sanctuary
in 1975 and protects the wreck of the
famed Civil War ironclad U.S.S.
Monitor. This proposed rule would
amend a general fishery regulation
adopted under the MSA, which
currently provides: ‘‘[a]ll fishing
activity, regardless of species sought, is
prohibited under 15 CFR part 924 in the
U.S.S. Monitor Marine Sanctuary,
which is located approximately 15 miles
southwest of Cape Hatteras off the coast
of North Carolina’’ (50 CFR 600.705(f)).
This text incorrectly states that ‘‘all
fishing activity’’ is prohibited under
national marine sanctuary regulations.
The Sanctuary regulations, which are
currently codified at part 922, only
expressly prohibit one type of fishing
E:\FR\FM\18MRR1.SGM
18MRR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 53 (Wednesday, March 18, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15387-15391]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-04747]
[[Page 15387]]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0832; FRL-10005-85]
Cyazofamid; Pesticide Tolerances
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of
cyazofamid in or on multiple commodities that are identified and
discussed later in this document. The Interregional Project Number 4
(IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
DATES: This regulation is effective March 18, 2020. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received on or before May 18, 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-2018-0832, 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, 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 EPA's
tolerance regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through the Government
Printing Office's e-CFR site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation and may also request a
hearing on those objections. You must file your objection or request a
hearing on this regulation in accordance with the instructions provided
in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must identify
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0832 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
May 18, 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-2018-0832, 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. Summary of Petitioned-For Tolerance
In the Federal Register of May 9, 2019 (84 FR 20320) (FRL-9992-36),
EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21 U.S.C.
346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP 8E8718)
by IR-4, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 500 College Road
East, Suite 201 W, Princeton, New Jersey 08540. The petition requested
that 40 CFR 180.601 be amended by establishing tolerances for residues
of the fungicide cyazofamid, 4-chloro-2-cyano-N,N-dimethyl-5-(4-
methylphenyl)-1H-imidazole-1-sulfonamide, in or on brassica, leafy
greens, subgroup 4-16B at 15.0 parts per million (ppm); ginseng at 0.2
ppm; kohlrabi at 1.5 ppm; leafy greens subgroup 4-16A at 10.0 ppm; and
vegetable, brassica, head and stem, group 5-16 at 1.5 ppm. Upon the
establishment of those tolerances, the petition requested the removal
of existing tolerances for residues of the fungicide cyazofamid in or
on brassica, head and stem, subgroup 5A at 1.2 ppm; brassica, leafy
greens, subgroup 5B at 12.0 ppm; leafy greens subgroup 4A at 10 ppm;
and turnip, greens at 12.0 ppm. That document referenced a summary of
the petition prepared by ISK Biosciences Corporation, the registrant,
which is available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. Two
comments were received on the notice of filing. EPA's response to these
comments is discussed in Unit IV.C.
Based upon review of the data supporting the petition and pursuant
to its authority in FFDCA section 408(d)(4)(A)(i), EPA is establishing
three of the tolerances at a different level than requested. The
reasons for these changes are explained in Unit IV.D.
III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a
tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a
food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure
to the
[[Page 15388]]
pesticide chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary exposures
and all other exposures for which there is reliable information.'' This
includes exposure through drinking water and in residential settings,
but does not include occupational exposure. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA requires EPA to give special consideration to exposure of infants
and children to the pesticide chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ``ensure that there is a reasonable certainty that no
harm will result to infants and children from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue. . . .''
Consistent with FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), and the factors
specified in FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available
scientific data and other relevant information in support of this
action. EPA has sufficient data to assess the hazards of and to make a
determination on aggregate exposure for cyazofamid including exposure
resulting from the tolerances established by this action. EPA's
assessment of exposures and risks associated with cyazofamid follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered its
validity, completeness, and reliability as well as the relationship of
the results of the studies to human risk. EPA has also considered
available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities
of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and
children.
Cyazofamid belongs to a chemical class based on the cyanoimidazole
and sulfonamide moieties. It specifically interferes with the
cytochrome bc1 complex (ubiquinol cytochrome c oxidoreductase) in the
mitochondrial respiratory chain of oomycetes fungi. The mechanism of
toxicity in mammals is not clear. There were no treatment-related
adverse effects in the acute and subchronic neurotoxicity studies.
However, following repeated administration in more than one species,
toxicological effects were observed primarily in the kidney. There were
no effects observed up to the limit dose (1,000 mg/kg) in the dermal
toxicity study. In dogs, there were no major toxicity findings.
In the prenatal developmental toxicity study in rats, there was a
marginal increased incidence of bent ribs observed in the high-dose
(1,000 mg/kg/day) without any maternal effects, indicating quantitative
susceptibility following in utero exposure.
Cyazofamid is classified as ``not likely to be carcinogenic to
humans'' based on the lack of evidence of carcinogenicity in both the
rat and the mouse studies. Additionally, cyazofamid does not appear to
be mutagenic, based on several negative in vivo and in vitro studies.
Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the
adverse effects caused by cyazofamid as well as the no-observed-
adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-adverse-effect-
level (LOAEL) from the toxicity studies can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in document ``Cyazofamid. Human Health Risk
Assessment for New Uses of Cyazofamid on Ginseng, and Greenhouse
Cucumbers and Crop Group Conversions on Vegetable, Brassica, Head and
Stem, Group 5-16; Brassica, Leafy Greens, Subgroup 4-16B; Leafy Greens,
Subgroup 4-16A; and to Establish an Individual Tolerance on Kohlrabi''
on page 20 in docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0832.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern
Once a pesticide's toxicological profile is determined, EPA
identifies toxicological points of departure (POD) and levels of
concern to use in evaluating the risk posed by human exposure to the
pesticide. For hazards that have a threshold below which there is no
appreciable risk, the toxicological POD is used as the basis for
derivation of reference values for risk assessment. PODs are developed
based on a careful analysis of the doses in each toxicological study to
determine the dose at which no adverse effects are observed (the NOAEL)
and the lowest dose at which adverse effects of concern are identified
(the LOAEL). Uncertainty/safety factors are used in conjunction with
the POD to calculate a safe exposure level--generally referred to as a
population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a reference dose (RfD)--and a safe
margin of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold risks, the Agency assumes
that any amount of exposure will lead to some degree of risk. Thus, the
Agency estimates risk in terms of the probability of an occurrence of
the adverse effect expected in a lifetime. For more information on the
general principles EPA uses in risk characterization and a complete
description of the risk assessment process, see https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks.
A summary of the toxicological endpoints for cyazofamid used for
human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III.B. of the final rule
published in the Federal Register of February 3, 2016 (81 FR 5602)
(FRL-9940-46).
C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to cyazofamid, EPA considered exposure under the petitioned-
for tolerances as well as all existing cyazofamid tolerances in 40 CFR
180.601. EPA assessed dietary exposures from cyazofamid in food as
follows:
i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute dietary exposure and risk
assessments are performed for a food-use pesticide, if a toxicological
study has indicated the possibility of an effect of concern occurring
as a result of a 1-day or single exposure. No such effects were
identified in the toxicological studies for cyazofamid; therefore, a
quantitative acute dietary exposure assessment is unnecessary.
ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure
assessment, EPA used the food consumption data from the USDA 2003-2008
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, What We Eat in
America, (NHANES/WWEIA). As to residue levels in food, EPA included
tolerance-level residues for all crops, default processing factors and
assumed that 100% of the crops were treated (100% CT) with cyazofamid.
iii. Cancer. Based on the data cited in Unit III.A., EPA has
concluded that cyazofamid 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.
EPA did not use anticipated residue and/or PCT information in the
dietary assessment for cyazofamid. Tolerance-level residues and/or 100%
CT were assumed for all food commodities.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening-
level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk
assessment for cyazofamid in drinking water. These simulation models
take into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/transport
characteristics of cyazofamid. 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.
Based on the Pesticide Root Zone Model/Exposure Analysis Modeling
System (PRZM/EXAMS) and Pesticide Root Zone Model Ground Water (PRZM
GW), the estimated drinking water concentrations (EDWCs) of cyazofamid
for chronic exposures for non-cancer assessments are estimated to be
133.5
[[Page 15389]]
ppb for surface water and 211 ppb for ground water.
Modeled estimates of drinking water concentrations were directly
entered into the dietary exposure model. For chronic dietary risk
assessment, the water concentration value of 211 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).
Cyazofamid is currently registered for the following uses that
could result in residential exposures: Turf and ornamentals. EPA
assumes there is no residential handler exposure because labels require
users to wear personal protective equipment. Post application exposure
(to turf and ornamental) from hand-to-mouth exposures was greatest to
children 1 to less than 2 years old. 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.'' Unlike other pesticides for
which EPA has followed a cumulative risk approach based on a common
mechanism of toxicity, EPA has not made a common mechanism of toxicity
finding as to cyazofamid and any other substances and cyazofamid does
not appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances.
For the purposes of this action, therefore, EPA has not assumed that
cyazofamid has a common mechanism of toxicity with other substances.
For information regarding EPA's efforts to determine which chemicals
have a common mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate the cumulative
effects of such chemicals, see EPA's website at https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/cumulative-assessment-risk-pesticides.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA
shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants
and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal
and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the FQPA Safety
Factor (SF). In applying this provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different additional safety factor when
reliable data available to EPA support the choice of a different
factor.
2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. In the prenatal
developmental toxicity study in rats, there was a marginal increased
incidence of bent ribs observed at the high-dose (1,000 mg/kg/day)
without any maternal effects, indicating quantitative susceptibility
following in utero exposure. There is low concern for this effect
because (1) bent ribs are a developmental variation rather than a
malformation; (2) the increased incidence was only marginally increased
over historical and concurrent controls; (3) similar effects were not
seen in the rabbit developmental study; and (4) the effect was only
observed at the limit dose.
3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show the
safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the
FQPA SF were reduced to 1X. That decision is based on the following
findings:
i. The toxicity database for cyazofamid is complete.
ii. There is no indication that cyazofamid is a neurotoxic chemical
and there is no need for a developmental neurotoxicity study or
additional UFs to account for neurotoxicity.
iii. Although there is evidence of quantitative susceptibility in
the developmental rat study, the concern is low because the effects
occur at the limit dose and are well-characterized with clearly
established no observed adverse-effect level (NOAEL)/lowest-observed
adverse-effect level (LOAEL) values and selected endpoints address the
observed effects.
iv. There are no residual uncertainties identified in the exposure
databases. The dietary food exposure assessments were performed based
on 100% CT, default processing factors and assumed tolerance-level
residues for all crops. EPA made conservative (protective) assumptions
in the ground and surface water modeling used to assess exposure to
cyazofamid in drinking water. EPA used similarly conservative
assumptions to assess post application exposure of children as well as
incidental oral exposure of toddlers. These assessments will not
underestimate the exposure and risks posed by cyazofamid.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide
exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the
acute 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. An acute aggregate risk assessment takes into
account acute exposure estimates from dietary consumption of food and
drinking water. No adverse effect resulting from a single oral exposure
was identified and no acute dietary endpoint was selected. Therefore,
cyazofamid is not expected to pose an acute risk.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this
unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that chronic exposure to
cyazofamid from food and water will utilize 2.0% of the cPAD for
children 1-2 years old, the population group receiving the greatest
exposure. Based on the explanation in Unit III.C.3., regarding
residential use patterns, chronic residential exposure to residues of
cyazofamid is not expected.
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). Cyazofamid is
currently registered for uses that could result in short-term
residential exposure, and the Agency has determined that it is
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with
short-term residential exposures to cyazofamid.
Using the exposure assumptions described in this unit for short-
term exposures, EPA has concluded the combined short-term food, water,
and residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 6,200 for
children 1 to less than 2 years old for dietary exposure (which is
considered a background exposure) and incidental oral (hand-to-mouth)
exposure from contact with
[[Page 15390]]
treated turf. Because EPA's level of concern for cyazofamid is an MOE
of 100 or below, these MOEs are not of concern.
4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered to be a background exposure
level). An intermediate-term adverse effect was identified; however,
cyazofamid is not registered for any use patterns that would result in
intermediate-term residential exposure. Intermediate-term risk is
assessed based on intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic
dietary exposure. Because there is no intermediate-term residential
exposure and chronic dietary exposure has already been assessed under
the appropriately protective cPAD (which is at least as protective as
the POD used to assess intermediate-term risk), no further assessment
of intermediate-term risk is necessary, and EPA relies on the chronic
dietary risk assessment for evaluating intermediate-term risk for
cyazofamid.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on the lack of
evidence of carcinogenicity in two adequate rodent carcinogenicity
studies, cyazofamid is not expected to pose a cancer risk to humans.
6. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA
concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result
to the general population, or to infants and children from aggregate
exposure to cyazofamid residues.
IV. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methods are available to determine residues of
cyazofamid and its metabolite CCIM (4-chloro-5-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-
imidazole-2-carbonitrile) in various commodities. An enforcement method
for non-fatty commodities is available, FDA's Multiresidue Protocol D
(without cleanup). The method completely recovers cyazofamid and its
metabolite CCIM. In addition, the high-performance liquid
chromatography method with ultraviolent light detection (HPLC/UV)
method is acceptable for use as a single analyte enforcement method
provided a confirmatory method such as the liquid chromatography method
with tandem mass-spectrometric detection (LC/MS/MS) method is used.
The methods 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 established MRLs for cyazofamid in or on Brassica
(cole or cabbage) vegetables, head cabbage, and flowerhead Brassicas at
1.5 ppm; leaves of Brassicaceae at 15 ppm; and leafy vegetables (except
Brassica leafy vegetables) at 10 ppm. The U.S. tolerances being
established are harmonized with these Codex MRLs, specifically
vegetable, brassica, head and stem, group 5-16 at 1.5 ppm; kohlrabi at
1.5 ppm; brassica leafy greens, subgroup 4-16B at 15 ppm; and leafy
greens subgroup 4-16A at 10 ppm. There is no Codex MRL for ginseng.
C. Response to Comments
EPA received two comments to the Notice of Filing, generally
opposed to any cyazofamid residues on leafy greens. Although the Agency
recognizes that some individuals believe that pesticides should be
banned on agricultural crops, the existing legal framework provided by
section 408 of the FFDCA states that tolerances may be set when persons
seeking such tolerances or exemptions have demonstrated that the
pesticide meets the safety standard imposed by that statute. These
comments appear to be directed at the underlying statute and not EPA's
implementation of it; the comments provide no information relevant the
Agency's safety determination.
D. Revisions to Petitioned-For Tolerances
EPA is establishing tolerances for Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup
4-16B and Leafy greens subgroup 4-16A at different levels than
requested to be consistent with the Organisation for Economic
Cooperation and Development (OECD) rounding class practice. For
ginseng, the petitioner's proposed tolerance was adjusted because
storage stability data indicated a decline in residues of CCIM.
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
statistical calculation procedures applied to the corrected residue
data provided a different value (0.3 ppm) than the proposed value (0.2
ppm). Therefore, EPA is establishing the tolerance for ginseng at 0.3
ppm.
V. Conclusion
Therefore, tolerances are established for residues of cyazofamid,
4-chloro-2-cyano-N,N-dimethyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-imidazole-1-
sulfonamide, in or on Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4-16B at 15 ppm;
Ginseng at 0.3 ppm; Kohlrabi at 1.5 ppm; Leafy greens subgroup 4-16A at
10 ppm; and Vegetable, brassica, head and stem, group 5-16 at 1.5 ppm.
Additionally, EPA is removing the established tolerances for Brassica,
head and stem, subgroup 5A at 1.2 ppm; Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup
5B at 12.0 ppm; Leafy greens subgroup 4A at 10 ppm; and Turnip, greens
at 12.0 ppm. Finally, as a housekeeping measure, EPA is removing the
expired exemption in paragraph (b) Section 18 emergency exemptions for
Basil, dried at 144 ppm, as it expired on December 31, 2014.
VI. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This action establishes tolerances under FFDCA section 408(d) in
response to a petition submitted to the Agency. The Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted these types of actions from
review under Executive Order 12866, entitled ``Regulatory Planning and
Review'' (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993). Because this 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), 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
[[Page 15391]]
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 tolerances 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).
VII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.),
EPA will submit a report containing this rule and other required
information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and
the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of
the rule in the Federal Register. This action is not a ``major rule''
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: March 2, 2020.
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. 180.601:
0
a. In the table in paragraph (a):
0
i. Remove the entries: Brassica, head and stem, subgroup 5A; and
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 5B;
0
ii. Add alphabetically the entries: Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4-
16B; Ginseng; and Kohlrabi;
0
iii. Remove the entry Leafy greens subgroup 4A;
0
iv. Add alphabetically the entry Leafy greens subgroup 4-16A;
0
v. Remove the entry Turnip, greens; and
0
vi. Add alphabetically the entry Vegetable, brassica, head and stem,
group 5-16; and
0
b. Remove and reserve paragraph (b).
The additions and revision read as follows:
Sec. 180.601 Cyazofamid; tolerances for residues.
(a) * * *
Table to Paragraph (a)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts per
Commodity million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Brassica, leafy greens, subgroup 4-16B...................... 15
* * * * *
Ginseng..................................................... 0.3
* * * * *
Kohlrabi.................................................... 1.5
Leafy greens subgroup 4-16A................................. 10
Vegetable, brassica, head and stem, group 5-16.............. 1.5
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2020-04747 Filed 3-17-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P