Helena, Mont. – On December 12, 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator signed the Federal Register document titled, Pesticides: Certification of Pesticide Applicators (RIN 2070-AJ20). The final action will update requirements for state programs and for applicators obtaining licenses and permits. Many states already have in place some of the stronger requirements of today’s action, including Montana.
“The final rule includes flexibility for states to continue portions of their existing programs that are equivalent to the revised rule. EPA will work with states to review and approve updated certification plans,” the EPA stated.
Today’s release had no publication date and therefore could be rolled back by the new administration. However, if the rule is not rolled back, a grace period would allow Montana to comply with the rule during the 2019 legislative session.
On August 5, 2015 the EPA issued a proposal to revise the Certification of Pesticide Applicator Rule (40 CFR 171) that would establish stronger training and certification standards for pesticide applicators certified to apply restricted use pesticides (RUP). The EPA accepted public comments on the proposal through January 22, 2016.
The finalized Certification of Pesticide Applicator Rule (40 CFR 171) can be viewed at https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/revised-certification-standards-pesticide-applicators.
Source: The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit www.agr.mt.gov.
