What agency is primarily responsible for regulating pesticides in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily responsible for regulating pesticides in the United States. The EPA's role includes overseeing the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides to ensure they do not pose unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. This involves evaluating the safety and efficacy of pesticides before they can be marketed, as well as enforcing compliance with applicable regulations.

The EPA also monitors the impacts of pesticide use and can take action to remove products from the market or restrict their use if new information about risks emerges. Their comprehensive approach involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including state agencies, agricultural organizations, and environmental groups, to maintain standards that protect both public health and ecosystems.

In contrast, while the FDA focuses on food safety and the USDA primarily addresses agricultural policies and programs, their mandates do not encompass the regulation of pesticides. OSHA, on the other hand, is focused on occupational safety and health standards rather than pesticide registration or management.