Which federal agency is responsible for regulating pesticides in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency tasked with regulating pesticides in the United States. This agency ensures that pesticides are evaluated for their safety and effectiveness before they can be approved for use. The EPA not only assesses the environmental impacts of pesticide use but also looks at potential risks to human health, ensuring that any approved products meet strict safety standards.

The role of the EPA involves evaluating data submitted by manufacturers and conducting its own assessments to determine whether a pesticide can be safely used in agricultural and non-agricultural settings. Additionally, the EPA is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations pertaining to pesticide distribution, sale, and use, making it foundational in protecting both the environment and public health from potential pesticide-related hazards.

Other agencies listed have different areas of responsibility. The Department of Health and Human Services focuses on health issues and public health services rather than directly regulating pesticides. The USDA is primarily concerned with agricultural aspects and supports farming practices but does not regulate pesticides. OSHA is dedicated to ensuring workplace safety and health, which includes addressing hazards related to pesticide exposure in work environments but does not oversee the regulation of the pesticides themselves.