What is the primary purpose of FIFRA?

The primary purpose of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is to establish pesticide safety for both users and the environment. This legislation is crucial because it ensures that any pesticide products sold and used in the United States meet specific safety standards to protect human health and the ecological system. FIFRA requires that pesticides be evaluated for their potential hazards before they can be approved for use, ensuring that they do not pose unreasonable risks when used according to label directions.

The emphasis on safety is vital in agricultural practices, as pesticides can have significant implications for farm workers, consumers, and surrounding wildlife. Therefore, the framework set by FIFRA grants the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to regulate pesticide registration, distribution, sale, and use, thereby safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.