Despite the EPA’s explicit labeling authority under FIFRA, some states are trying to add labeling requirements that directly contradict the EPA's decades long scientific conclusions on the safety of specific pesticides.  Without certainty on EPA approved, science based nationwide labels, the availability of current and future pesticides might be in jeopardy. If ag retailers and farmers are forced to abandon these modern crop protection tools, many would go out of business, food prices would soar, hunger would spike, and carbon emissions would climb.
 
IFCA and the industries solution is legislation that reaffirms FIFRA’s explicit acknowledgment that the EPA is the preeminent authority on pesticide labeling and packaging requirements. The language also ensures the EPA does not take any position or action including approving label requirements that is at odds with the agency’s established scientific views regarding the carcinogenicity of a particular pesticide.  Ultimately, the bill is intended to provide certainty to ag retailers, farmers, and consumers that the tools supporting our modern agriculture system and food supply will remain safe and available.
 
Recently, IFCA with other ag groups across the nation signed a letter to the four leaders in the US Senate and House supporting FIFRA.  If you would like to see the letter, please click here.