Which federal agency regulates the sale and use of pesticides in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency responsible for regulating the sale and use of pesticides in the United States. This branch of the federal government ensures that pesticides are safe for human health and the environment by enforcing laws that govern pesticide registration, labeling, and application. The EPA evaluates scientific data on pesticide safety and efficacy before products can be marketed, aiming to protect agricultural productivity and public health.

The agency's regulatory framework includes overseeing the significant aspects of pesticide use, such as application methods, safety precautions, and potential environmental impacts. Through its authority under laws like the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), the EPA sets standards for allowable pesticide residues in food and promotes safe handling practices.

In contrast, other agencies mentioned have different primary responsibilities. The FDA is primarily focused on food safety, drug approval, and cosmetics, while the USDA deals with agricultural policies related to farming practices and food production. OSHA is concerned with workplace safety and health, focusing on employee protection rather than pesticide regulation. Therefore, understanding the role of the EPA is crucial for anyone involved in the sale or use of pesticides.