What is the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act?

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is a federal law developed to protect the public from the negative effects of pesticide misuse. This law was passed by the United States Congress in 1947 and was intended to regulate the sale, distribution, and use of insecticides, fungicides, and rodenticides (pesticides). It established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and gave the agency the authority to register pesticides, to set tolerances on the amount of pesticide residues in food, and to regulate pesticide label warnings. FIFRA ensured that pesticides on the market were safe, effective, and did not cause harm to humans or the environment. It also outlines the requirements and regulations for testing pesticides, how they must be used, and the responsibilities of the user. For example, it requires that people who use pesticides are properly trained, and that they follow directions on the label when applying the pesticide. FIFRA further requires that each introduced pesticide is registered with the EPA prior to its sale or distribution. In Virginia, FIFRA is enforced by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). The VDACS oversees the use and sale of pesticides and ensures that those who are using them are following the guidelines set forth in FIFRA. They are also responsible for the investigation and enforcement of misuse and/or improper disposal of pesticides in Virginia.

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What is the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act?

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