---
kind: "section"
citation: "21 U.S.C. § 346a"
title: "21"
title_heading: "Food and Drugs"
number: "346a"
heading: "Tolerances and exemptions for pesticide chemical residues"
release: "119-102"
date: "2026-07-12"
url: "https://uscodex.org/usc/21/346a"
units:
  - "Chapter 9 — Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act"
  - "Subchapter IV — Food"
---

# §346a. Tolerances and exemptions for pesticide chemical residues

- (a) **Requirement for tolerance or exemption—**
  - (1) **General rule—** Except as provided in paragraph [(2)](#a-2) or [(3)](#a-3), any [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall be deemed unsafe for the purpose of [section 342(a)(2)(B) of this title](/usc/21/342.md) unless—
    - (A) a tolerance for such [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) is in effect under this section and the quantity of the residue is within the limits of the tolerance; or
    - (B) an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is in effect under this section for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2).

    For the purposes of this section, the term “[food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)”, when used as a noun without modification, shall mean a [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) or [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg).

  - (2) **Processed food—** Notwithstanding [paragraph (1)](#a-1)—
    - (A) if a tolerance is in effect under this section for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r), a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that is present in or on a [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg) because the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) is made from that [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) shall not be considered unsafe within the meaning of [section 342(a)(2)(B) of this title](/usc/21/342.md) despite the lack of a tolerance for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on the [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg) if the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) has been used in or on the [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) in conformity with a tolerance under this section, such residue in or on the [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) has been removed to the extent possible in good manufacturing practice, and the concentration of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in the [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg) is not greater than the tolerance prescribed for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in the [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r); or
    - (B) if an exemption for the requirement for a tolerance is in effect under this section for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r), a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that is present in or on a [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg) because the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) is made from that [raw agricultural commodity](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) shall not be considered unsafe within the meaning of [section 342(a)(2)(B) of this title](/usc/21/342.md).
  - (3) **Residues of degradation products—** If a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) is present in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) because it is a metabolite or other degradation [product](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=13) of a precursor substance that itself is a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) or [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), such a residue shall not be considered to be unsafe within the meaning of [section 342(a)(2)(B) of this title](/usc/21/342.md) despite the lack of a tolerance or exemption from the need for a tolerance for such residue in or on such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) if—
    - (A) the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) has not determined that the degradation [product](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=13) is likely to pose any potential health risk from dietary exposure that is of a different type than, or of a greater significance than, any risk posed by dietary exposure to the precursor substance;
    - (B) either—
      - (i) a tolerance is in effect under this section for residues of the precursor substance in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), and the combined level of residues of the degradation [product](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=13) and the precursor substance in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) is at or below the stoichiometrically equivalent level that would be permitted by the tolerance if the residue consisted only of the precursor substance rather than the degradation [product](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=13); or
      - (ii) an exemption from the need for a tolerance is in effect under this section for residues of the precursor substance in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f); and
    - (C) the tolerance or exemption for residues of the precursor substance does not [state](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) that it applies only to particular named substances and does not [state](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) that it does not apply to residues of the degradation [product](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=13).
  - (4) **Effect of tolerance or exemption—** While a tolerance or exemption from the requirement for a tolerance is in effect under this section for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) with respect to any [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall not by reason of bearing or containing any amount of such a residue be considered to be adulterated within the meaning of [section 342(a)(1) of this title](/usc/21/342.md?p=a-1).
- (b) **Authority and standard for tolerance—**
  - (1) **Authority—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may issue regulations establishing, modifying, or revoking a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)—
    - (A) in response to a petition filed under [subsection (d)](#d); or
    - (B) on the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s own initiative under [subsection (e)](#e).

    As used in this section, the term “modify” shall not mean expanding the tolerance to cover additional [foods](/usc/21/321.md?p=f).

  - (2) **Standard—**
    - (A) **General rule—**
      - (i) **Standard—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may establish or leave in effect a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) only if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the tolerance is [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u). The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall modify or revoke a tolerance if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines it is not [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u).
      - (ii) **Determination of safety—** As used in this section, the term “[safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u)”, with respect to a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), means that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) has determined that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), including all anticipated dietary exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable information.
      - (iii) **Rule of construction—** With respect to a tolerance, a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) meeting the standard under [clause (i)](#b-2-A-i) is not an eligible [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) for purposes of [subparagraph (B)](#b-2-B).
    - (B) **Tolerances for eligible pesticide chemical residues—**
      - (i) **Definition—** As used in this subparagraph, the term “eligible [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2)” means a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) as to which—
        - (I) the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) is not able to identify a level of exposure to the residue at which the residue will not cause or contribute to a known or anticipated harm to human health (referred to in this section as a “nonthreshold effect”);
        - (II) the lifetime risk of experiencing the nonthreshold effect is appropriately assessed by quantitative risk assessment; and
        - (III) with regard to any known or anticipated harm to human health for which the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) is able to identify a level at which the residue will not cause such harm (referred to in this section as a “threshold effect”), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the level of aggregate exposure is [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u).
      - (ii) **Determination of tolerance—** Notwithstanding [subparagraph (A)(i)](#b-2-A-i), a tolerance for an eligible [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) may be left in effect or modified under this subparagraph if—
        - (I) at least one of the conditions described in [clause (iii)](#b-2-B-iii) is met; and
        - (II) both of the conditions described in [clause (iv)](#b-2-B-iv) are met.
      - (iii) **Conditions regarding use—** For purposes of [clause (ii)](#b-2-B-ii), the conditions described in this clause with respect to a tolerance for an eligible [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) are the following:
        - (I) Use of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that produces the residue protects consumers from adverse effects on health that would pose a greater risk than the dietary risk from the residue.
        - (II) Use of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that produces the residue is necessary to avoid a significant disruption in domestic production of an adequate, wholesome, and economical [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) supply.
      - (iv) **Conditions regarding risk—** For purposes of [clause (ii)](#b-2-B-ii), the conditions described in this clause with respect to a tolerance for an eligible [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) are the following:
        - (I) The yearly risk associated with the nonthreshold effect from aggregate exposure to the residue does not exceed 10 times the yearly risk that would be allowed under [subparagraph (A)](#b-2-A) for such effect.
        - (II) The tolerance is limited so as to ensure that the risk over a lifetime associated with the nonthreshold effect from aggregate exposure to the residue is not greater than twice the lifetime risk that would be allowed under [subparagraph (A)](#b-2-A) for such effect.
      - (v) **Review—** Five years after the date on which the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) makes a determination to leave in effect or modify a tolerance under this subparagraph, and thereafter as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) deems appropriate, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall determine, after notice and opportunity for comment, whether it has been demonstrated to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) that a condition described in [clause (iii)(I)](#b-2-B-iii-I) or [clause (iii)(II)](#b-2-B-iii-II) continues to exist with respect to the tolerance and that the yearly and lifetime risks from aggregate exposure to such residue continue to comply with the limits specified in [clause (iv)](#b-2-B-iv). If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines by such date that such demonstration has not been made, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, not later than 180 days after the date of such determination, issue a regulation under [subsection (e)(1)](#e-1) to modify or revoke the tolerance.
      - (vi) **Infants and children—** Any tolerance under this subparagraph shall meet the requirements of [subparagraph (C)](#b-2-C).
    - (C) **Exposure of infants and children—** In establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)—
      - (i) shall assess the risk of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) based on—
        - (I) available information about consumption patterns among infants and children that are likely to result in disproportionately high consumption of [foods](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) containing or bearing such residue among infants and children in comparison to the general population;
        - (II) available information concerning the special susceptibility of infants and children to the [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), including neurological differences between infants and children and adults, and effects of in utero exposure to [pesticide chemicals](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A); and
        - (III) available information concerning the cumulative effects on infants and children of such residues and other substances that have a common mechanism of toxicity; and
      - (ii) shall—
        - (I) ensure that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to infants and children from aggregate exposure to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2); and
        - (II) publish a specific determination regarding the safety of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) for infants and children.

      The [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) of Health and Human Services and the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) of Agriculture, in consultation with the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), shall conduct surveys to document dietary exposure to [pesticides](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) among infants and children. In the case of threshold effects, for purposes of [clause (ii)(I)](#b-2-C-ii-I) an additional tenfold margin of safety for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) and other sources of exposure shall be applied for infants and children to take into account potential pre- and post-natal toxicity and completeness of the data with respect to exposure and toxicity to infants and children. Notwithstanding such requirement for an additional margin of safety, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may use a different margin of safety for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) only if, on the basis of reliable data, such margin will be [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u) for infants and children.

    - (D) **Factors—** In establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall consider, among other relevant factors—
      - (i) the validity, completeness, and reliability of the available data from studies of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) and [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2);
      - (ii) the nature of any toxic effect shown to be caused by the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) or [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in such studies;
      - (iii) available information concerning the relationship of the results of such studies to human risk;
      - (iv) available information concerning the dietary consumption patterns of consumers (and major identifiable subgroups of consumers);
      - (v) available information concerning the cumulative effects of such residues and other substances that have a common mechanism of toxicity;
      - (vi) available information concerning the aggregate exposure levels of consumers (and major identifiable subgroups of consumers) to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) and to other related substances, including dietary exposure under the tolerance and all other tolerances in effect for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), and exposure from other non-occupational sources;
      - (vii) available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities of major identifiable subgroups of consumers;
      - (viii) such information as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may require on whether the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) may have an effect in humans that is similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen or other endocrine effects; and
      - (ix) safety factors which in the opinion of experts qualified by scientific training and experience to evaluate the safety of [food additives](/usc/21/321.md?p=s) are generally recognized as appropriate for the use of animal experimentation data.
    - (E) **Data and information regarding anticipated and actual residue levels—**
      - (i) **Authority—** In establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may consider available data and information on the anticipated residue levels of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) and the actual residue levels of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that have been measured in [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), including residue data collected by the [Food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) and [Drug](/usc/21/321.md?p=g-1) Administration.
      - (ii) **Requirement—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) relies on anticipated or actual residue levels in establishing, modifying, or leaving in effect a tolerance, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall pursuant to [subsection (f)(1)](#f-1) require that data be provided five years after the date on which the tolerance is established, modified, or left in effect, and thereafter as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) deems appropriate, demonstrating that such residue levels are not above the levels so relied on. If such data are not so provided, or if the data do not demonstrate that the residue levels are not above the levels so relied on, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, not later than 180 days after the date on which the data were required to be provided, issue a regulation under [subsection (e)(1)](#e-1), or an order under [subsection (f)(2)](#f-2), as appropriate, to modify or revoke the tolerance.
    - (F) **Percent of food actually treated—** In establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may, when assessing chronic dietary risk, consider available data and information on the percent of [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) actually treated with the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) (including aggregate [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) use data collected by the [Department](/usc/21/321.md?p=c) of Agriculture) only if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)—
      - (i) finds that the data are reliable and provide a valid basis to show what percentage of the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) derived from such crop is likely to contain such [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2);
      - (ii) finds that the exposure estimate does not understate exposure for any significant subpopulation group;
      - (iii) finds that, if data are available on [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) use and consumption of [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) in a particular area, the population in such area is not dietarily exposed to residues above those estimated by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh); and
      - (iv) provides for the periodic reevaluation of the estimate of anticipated dietary exposure.
  - (3) **Detection methods—**
    - (A) **General rule—** A tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall not be established or modified by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) unless the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines, after consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d), that there is a practical method for detecting and measuring the levels of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f).
    - (B) **Detection limit—** A tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall not be established at or modified to a level lower than the limit of detection of the method for detecting and measuring the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) specified by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) under [subparagraph (A)](#b-3-A).
  - (4) **International standards—** In establishing a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall determine whether a maximum residue level for the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) has been established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. If a Codex maximum residue level has been established for the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) and the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) does not propose to adopt the Codex level, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall publish for public comment a notice explaining the reasons for departing from the Codex level.
- (c) **Authority and standard for exemptions—**
  - (1) **Authority—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may issue a regulation establishing, modifying, or revoking an exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)—
    - (A) in response to a petition filed under [subsection (d)](#d); or
    - (B) on the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s initiative under [subsection (e)](#e).
  - (2) **Standard—**
    - (A) **General rule—**
      - (i) **Standard—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may establish or leave in effect an exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) only if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the exemption is [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u). The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall modify or revoke an exemption if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines it is not [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u).
      - (ii) **Determination of safety—** The term “[safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u)”, with respect to an exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), means that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) has determined that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), including all anticipated dietary exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable information.
    - (B) **Factors—** In making a determination under this paragraph, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall take into account, among other relevant considerations, the considerations set forth in subparagraphs [(C)](#b-2-C) and [(D)](#b-2-D) of subsection (b)(2).
  - (3) **Limitation—** An exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall not be established or modified by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) unless the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines, after consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d)—
    - (A) that there is a practical method for detecting and measuring the levels of such [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f); or
    - (B) that there is no need for such a method, and [states](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) the reasons for such determination in issuing the regulation establishing or modifying the exemption.
- (d) **Petition for tolerance or exemption—**
  - (1) **Petitions and petitioners—** Any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) may file with the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) a petition proposing the issuance of a regulation—
    - (A) establishing, modifying, or revoking a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f); or
    - (B) establishing, modifying, or revoking an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for such a residue.
  - (2) **Petition contents—**
    - (A) **Establishment—** A petition under [paragraph (1)](#d-1) to establish a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) shall be supported by such data and information as are specified in regulations issued by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), including—
      - (i)
        - (I) an informative summary of the petition and of the data, information, and arguments submitted or cited in support of the petition; and
        - (II) a statement that the petitioner agrees that such summary or any information it contains may be published as a part of the notice of filing of the petition to be published under this subsection and as part of a proposed or final regulation issued under this section;
      - (ii) the name, chemical identity, and composition of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) and of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that produces the residue;
      - (iii) data showing the recommended amount, frequency, method, and time of application of that [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A);
      - (iv) full reports of tests and investigations made with respect to the safety of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A), including full information as to the methods and controls used in conducting those tests and investigations;
      - (v) full reports of tests and investigations made with respect to the nature and amount of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that is likely to remain in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), including a description of the analytical methods used;
      - (vi) a practical method for detecting and measuring the levels of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), or for exemptions, a statement why such a method is not needed;
      - (vii) a proposed tolerance for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), if a tolerance is proposed;
      - (viii) if the petition relates to a tolerance for a [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg), reports of investigations conducted using the processing method(s) used to produce that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f);
      - (ix) such information as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may require to make the determination under [subsection (b)(2)(C)](#b-2-C);
      - (x) such information as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may require on whether the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) may have an effect in humans that is similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen or other endocrine effects;
      - (xi) information regarding exposure to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) due to any tolerance or exemption already granted for such residue;
      - (xii) practical methods for removing any amount of the residue that would exceed any proposed tolerance; and
      - (xiii) such other data and information as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) requires by regulation to support the petition.

      If information or data required by this subparagraph is available to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), the [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) submitting the petition may cite the availability of the information or data in lieu of submitting it. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may require a petition to be accompanied by samples of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) with respect to which the petition is filed.

    - (B) **Modification or revocation—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may by regulation establish the requirements for information and data to support a petition to modify or revoke a tolerance or to modify or revoke an exemption from the requirement for a tolerance.
  - (3) **Notice—** A notice of the filing of a petition that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines has met the requirements of [paragraph (2)](#d-2) shall be published by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) within 30 days after such determination. The notice shall announce the availability of a description of the analytical methods available to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) for the detection and measurement of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) with respect to which the petition is filed or shall set forth the petitioner’s statement of why such a method is not needed. The notice shall include the summary required by [paragraph (2)(A)(i)(I)](#d-2-A-i-I).
  - (4) **Actions by the Administrator—**
    - (A) **In general—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, after giving due consideration to a petition filed under [paragraph (1)](#d-1) and any other information available to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)—
      - (i) issue a final regulation (which may vary from that sought by the petition) establishing, modifying, or revoking a tolerance for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) or an exemption of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) from the requirement of a tolerance (which final regulation shall be issued without further notice and without further period for public comment);
      - (ii) issue a proposed regulation under [subsection (e)](#e), and thereafter issue a final regulation under such subsection; or
      - (iii) issue an order denying the petition.
    - (B) **Priorities—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall give priority to petitions for the establishment or modification of a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that appears to pose a significantly lower risk to human health from dietary exposure than [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that have tolerances in effect for the same or similar uses.
    - (C) **Expedited review of certain petitions—**
      - (i) **Date certain for review—** If a [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) files a complete petition with the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) proposing the issuance of a regulation establishing a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that presents a lower risk to human health than a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) for which a tolerance has been left in effect or modified under [subsection (b)(2)(B)](#b-2-B), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall complete action on such petition under this paragraph within 1 year.
      - (ii) **Required determinations—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) issues a final regulation establishing a tolerance or exemption for a safer [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) under [clause (i)](#d-4-C-i), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, not later than 180 days after the date on which the regulation is issued, determine whether a condition described in subclause [(I)](#b-2-B-iii-I) or [(II)](#b-2-B-iii-II) of subsection (b)(2)(B)(iii) continues to exist with respect to a tolerance that has been left in effect or modified under [subsection (b)(2)(B)](#b-2-B). If such condition does not continue to exist, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, not later than 180 days after the date on which the determination under the preceding sentence is made, issue a regulation under [subsection (e)(1)](#e-1) to modify or revoke the tolerance.
- (e) **Action on Administrator’s own initiative—**
  - (1) **General rule—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may issue a regulation—
    - (A) establishing, modifying, suspending under [subsection (l)(3)](#l-3), or revoking a tolerance for a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) or a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2);
    - (B) establishing, modifying, suspending under [subsection (l)(3)](#l-3), or revoking an exemption of a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) from the requirement of a tolerance; or
    - (C) establishing general procedures and requirements to implement this section.
  - (2) **Notice—** Before issuing a final regulation under [paragraph (1)](#e-1), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking and provide a period of not less than 60 days for public comment on the proposed regulation, except that a shorter period for comment may be provided if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) for good cause finds that it would be in the public interest to do so and [states](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) the reasons for the finding in the notice of proposed rulemaking.
- (f) **Special data requirements—**
  - (1) **Requiring submission of additional data—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that additional data or information are reasonably required to support the continuation of a tolerance or exemption that is in effect under this section for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall—
    - (A) issue a notice requiring the [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) holding the [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) registrations associated with such tolerance or exemption to submit the data or information under section 3(c)(2)(B) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a(c)(2)(B)](/usc/7/136a.md?p=c-2-B)];
    - (B) issue a rule requiring that testing be conducted on a substance or mixture under section 4 of the Toxic Substances Control Act [[15 U.S.C. 2603](/usc/15/2603.md)]; or
    - (C) publish in the Federal Register, after first providing notice and an opportunity for comment of not less than 60 days’ duration, an order—
      - (i) requiring the submission to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) by one or more interested [persons](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) of a notice identifying the [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) or [persons](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) who will submit the required data and information;
      - (ii) describing the type of data and information required to be submitted to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) and stating why the data and information could not be obtained under the authority of section 3(c)(2)(B) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a(c)(2)(B)](/usc/7/136a.md?p=c-2-B)] or section 4 of the Toxic Substances Control Act [[15 U.S.C. 2603](/usc/15/2603.md)];
      - (iii) describing the reports of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) required to be prepared during and after the collection of the data and information;
      - (iv) requiring the submission to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) of the data, information, and reports referred to in clauses [(ii)](#f-1-C-ii) and [(iii)](#f-1-C-iii); and
      - (v) establishing dates by which the submissions described in clauses [(i)](#f-1-C-i) and [(iv)](#f-1-C-iv) must be made.

      The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may under [subparagraph (C)](#f-1-C) revise any such order to correct an error. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may under this paragraph require data or information pertaining to whether the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) may have an effect in humans that is similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen or other endocrine effects.

  - (2) **Noncompliance—** If a submission required by a notice issued in accordance with [paragraph (1)(A)](#f-1-A), a rule issued under [paragraph (1)(B)](#f-1-B), or an order issued under [paragraph (1)(C)](#f-1-C) is not made by the time specified in such notice, rule, or order, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may by order published in the Federal Register modify or revoke the tolerance or exemption in question. In any review of such an order under [subsection (g)(2)](#g-2), the only material issue shall be whether a submission required under [paragraph (1)](#f-1) was not made by the time specified.
- (g) **Effective date, objections, hearings, and administrative review—**
  - (1) **Effective date—** A regulation or order issued under subsection [(d)(4)](#d-4), [(e)(1)](#e-1), or [(f)(2)](#f-2) shall take effect upon publication unless the regulation or order specifies otherwise. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may stay the effectiveness of the regulation or order if, after issuance of such regulation or order, objections are filed with respect to such regulation or order pursuant to [paragraph (2)](#g-2).
  - (2) **Further proceedings—**
    - (A) **Objections—** Within 60 days after a regulation or order is issued under subsection [(d)(4)](#d-4), [(e)(1)(A)](#e-1-A), [(e)(1)(B)](#e-1-B), [(f)(2)](#f-2), [(n)(3)](#n-3), or [(n)(5)(C)](#n-5-C), any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) may file objections thereto with the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), specifying with particularity the provisions of the regulation or order deemed objectionable and stating reasonable grounds therefor. If the regulation or order was issued in response to a petition under [subsection (d)(1)](#d-1), a copy of each objection filed by a [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) other than the petitioner shall be served by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) on the petitioner.
    - (B) **Hearing—** An objection may include a request for a public evidentiary hearing upon the objection. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, upon the initiative of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) or upon the request of an interested [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) and after due notice, hold a public evidentiary hearing if and to the extent the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that such a public hearing is necessary to receive factual evidence relevant to material issues of fact raised by the objections. The presiding officer in such a hearing may authorize a party to obtain discovery from other [persons](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) and may upon a showing of good cause made by a party issue a subpoena to compel testimony or production of documents from any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e). The presiding officer shall be governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure in making any order for the protection of the witness or the content of documents produced and shall order the payment of reasonable fees and expenses as a condition to requiring testimony of the witness. On contest, such a subpoena may be enforced by a Federal district court.
    - (C) **Final decision—** As soon as practicable after receiving the arguments of the parties, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall issue an order stating the action taken upon each such objection and setting forth any revision to the regulation or prior order that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) has found to be warranted. If a hearing was held under [subparagraph (B)](#g-2-B), such order and any revision to the regulation or prior order shall, with respect to questions of fact at issue in the hearing, be based only on substantial evidence of record at such hearing, and shall set forth in detail the findings of facts and the conclusions of law or policy upon which the order or regulation is based.
- (h) **Judicial review—**
  - (1) **Petition—** In a case of actual controversy as to the validity of any regulation issued under [subsection (e)(1)(C)](#e-1-C), or any order issued under subsection [(f)(1)(C)](#f-1-C) or [(g)(2)(C)](#g-2-C), or any regulation that is the subject of such an order, any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) who will be adversely affected by such order or regulation may obtain judicial review by filing in the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit wherein that [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) resides or has its principal place of business, or in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, within 60 days after publication of such order or regulation, a petition praying that the order or regulation be set aside in whole or in part.
  - (2) **Record and jurisdiction—** A copy of the petition under [paragraph (1)](#h-1) shall be forthwith transmitted by the clerk of the court to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), or any officer designated by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) for that purpose, and thereupon the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall file in the court the record of the proceedings on which the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) based the order or regulation, as provided in [section 2112 of title 28](/usc/28/2112.md). Upon the filing of such a petition, the court shall have exclusive jurisdiction to affirm or set aside the order or regulation complained of in whole or in part. As to orders issued following a public evidentiary hearing, the findings of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) with respect to questions of fact shall be sustained only if supported by substantial evidence when considered on the record as a whole.
  - (3) **Additional evidence—** If a party applies to the court for leave to adduce additional evidence and shows to the satisfaction of the court that the additional evidence is material and that there were reasonable grounds for the failure to adduce the evidence in the proceeding before the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), the court may order that the additional evidence (and evidence in rebuttal thereof) shall be taken before the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) in the manner and upon the terms and conditions the court deems proper. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may modify prior findings as to the facts by reason of the additional evidence so taken and may modify the order or regulation accordingly. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall file with the court any such modified finding, order, or regulation.
  - (4) **Final judgment; Supreme Court review—** The judgment of the court affirming or setting aside, in whole or in part, any regulation or any order and any regulation which is the subject of such an order shall be final, subject to review by the Supreme Court of the United States as provided in [section 1254 of title 28](/usc/28/1254.md). The commencement of proceedings under this subsection shall not, unless specifically ordered by the court to the contrary, operate as a stay of a regulation or order.
  - (5) **Application—** Any issue as to which review is or was obtainable under this subsection shall not be the subject of judicial review under any other provision of law.
- (i) **Confidentiality and use of data—**
  - (1) **General rule—** Data and information that are or have been submitted to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) under this section or [section 348 of this title](/usc/21/348.md) in support of a tolerance or an exemption from a tolerance shall be entitled to confidential treatment for reasons of business confidentiality and to exclusive use and data compensation to the same extent provided by sections 3 and 10 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a](/usc/7/136a.md), 136h].
  - (2) **Exceptions—**
    - (A) **In general—** Data and information that are entitled to confidential treatment under [paragraph (1)](#i-1) may be disclosed, under such security requirements as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may provide by regulation, to—
      - (i) employees of the United States [authorized](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=2) by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to examine such data and information in the carrying out of their official duties under this chapter or other Federal statutes intended to protect the public health; or
      - (ii) contractors with the United States [authorized](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=2) by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to examine such data and information in the carrying out of contracts under this chapter or such statutes.
    - (B) **Congress—** This subsection does not authorize the withholding of data or information from either House of Congress or from, to the extent of matter within its jurisdiction, any committee or subcommittee of such committee or any joint committee of Congress or any subcommittee of such joint committee.
  - (3) **Summaries—** Notwithstanding any provision of this subsection or other law, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may publish the informative summary required by [subsection (d)(2)(A)(i)](#d-2-A-i) and may, in issuing a proposed or final regulation or order under this section, publish an informative summary of the data relating to the regulation or order.
- (j) **Status of previously issued regulations—**
  - (1) **Regulations under section 346—** Regulations affecting [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [raw agricultural commodities](/usc/21/321.md?p=r) promulgated, in accordance with [section 371(e) of this title](/usc/21/371.md?p=e), under the authority of [section 346(a)](/usc/21/346.md)[^1] of this title upon the basis of public hearings instituted before January 1, 1953, shall be deemed to be regulations issued under this section and shall be subject to modification or revocation under subsections [(d)](#d) and [(e)](#e), and shall be subject to review under [subsection (q)](#q).
  - (2) **Regulations under section 348—** Regulations that established tolerances for substances that are [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [processed food](/usc/21/321.md?p=gg), or that otherwise stated the conditions under which such [pesticide chemicals](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) could be safely used, and that were issued under [section 348 of this title](/usc/21/348.md) on or before August 3, 1996, shall be deemed to be regulations issued under this section and shall be subject to modification or revocation under subsection [(d)](#d) or [(e)](#e), and shall be subject to review under [subsection (q)](#q).
  - (3) **Regulations under section 346a—** Regulations that established tolerances or exemptions under this section that were issued on or before August 3, 1996, shall remain in effect unless modified or revoked under subsection [(d)](#d) or [(e)](#e), and shall be subject to review under [subsection (q)](#q).
  - (4) **Certain substances—** With respect to a substance that is not included in the definition of the term “[pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A)” under [section 321(q)(1) of this title](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1) but was so included on the day before October 30, 1998, the following applies as of October 30, 1998:
    - (A) Notwithstanding [paragraph (2)](#j-2), any regulation applying to the use of the substance that was in effect on the day before October 30, 1998, and was on such day deemed in such paragraph to have been issued under this section, shall be considered to have been issued under [section 348 of this title](/usc/21/348.md).
    - (B) Notwithstanding [paragraph (3)](#j-3), any regulation applying to the use of the substance that was in effect on such day and was issued under this section (including any such regulation issued before August 3, 1996) is deemed to have been issued under [section 348 of this title](/usc/21/348.md).
- (k) **Transitional provision—** If, on the day before August 3, 1996, a substance that is a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) was, with respect to a particular pesticidal use of the substance and any resulting [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a particular [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)—
  - (1) regarded by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) or the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) as generally recognized as [safe](/usc/21/321.md?p=u) for use within the meaning of the provisions of [subsection (a)](#a) or [section 321(s) of this title](/usc/21/321.md?p=s) as then in effect; or
  - (2) regarded by the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) as a substance described by [section 321(s)(4) of this title](/usc/21/321.md?p=s-4);

  such a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) shall be regarded as exempt from the requirement for a tolerance, as of August 3, 1996. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall by regulation indicate which substances are described by this subsection. Any exemption under this subsection may be modified or revoked as if it had been issued under [subsection (c)](#c).

- (l) **Harmonization with action under other laws—**
  - (1) **Coordination with FIFRA—** To the extent practicable and consistent with the review deadlines in [subsection (q)](#q), in issuing a final rule under this subsection that suspends or revokes a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall coordinate such action with any related necessary action under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136](/usc/7/136.md) et seq.].
  - (2) **Revocation of tolerance or exemption following cancellation of associated registrations—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), acting under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, cancels the registration of each [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that contains a particular [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) and that is labeled for use on a particular [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), or requires that the registration of each such [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) be modified to prohibit its use in connection with the production, storage, or transportation of such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), due in whole or in part to dietary risks to humans posed by residues of that [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) on that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall revoke any tolerance or exemption that allows the presence of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A), or any [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that results from its use, in or on that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f). [Subsection (e)](#e) shall apply to actions taken under this paragraph. A revocation under this paragraph shall become effective not later than 180 days after—
    - (A) the date by which each such cancellation of a registration has become effective; or
    - (B) the date on which the use of the canceled [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) becomes unlawful under the terms of the cancellation, whichever is later.
  - (3) **Suspension of tolerance or exemption following suspension of associated registrations—**
    - (A) **Suspension—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), acting under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, suspends the use of each registered [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that contains a particular [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) and that is labeled for use on a particular [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), due in whole or in part to dietary risks to humans posed by residues of that [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) on that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall suspend any tolerance or exemption that allows the presence of the [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A), or any [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that results from its use, in or on that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f). [Subsection (e)](#e) shall apply to actions taken under this paragraph. A suspension under this paragraph shall become effective not later than 60 days after the date by which each such suspension of use has become effective.
    - (B) **Effect of suspension—** The suspension of a tolerance or exemption under [subparagraph (A)](#l-3-A) shall be effective as long as the use of each associated registration of a [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) is suspended under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. While a suspension of a tolerance or exemption is effective the tolerance or exemption shall not be considered to be in effect. If the suspension of use of the [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) under that Act is terminated, leaving the registration of the [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) for such use in effect under that Act, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall rescind any associated suspension of tolerance or exemption.
  - (4) **Tolerances for unavoidable residues—** In connection with action taken under paragraph [(2)](#l-2) or [(3)](#l-3), or with respect to [pesticides](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) whose registrations were suspended or canceled prior to August 3, 1996, under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that a residue of the canceled or suspended [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) will unavoidably persist in the environment and thereby be present in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may establish a tolerance for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2). In establishing such a tolerance, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall take into account both the factors set forth in [subsection (b)(2)](#b-2) and the unavoidability of the residue. [Subsection (e)](#e) shall apply to the establishment of such tolerance. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall review any such tolerance periodically and modify it as necessary so that it allows no greater level of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) than is unavoidable.
  - (5) **Pesticide residues resulting from lawful application of pesticide—** Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, if a tolerance or exemption for a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) has been revoked, suspended, or modified under this section, an article of that [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) shall not be deemed unsafe solely because of the presence of such [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) if it is shown to the satisfaction of the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) that—
    - (A) the residue is present as the result of an application or use of a [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) at a time and in a manner that was lawful under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act; and
    - (B) the residue does not exceed a level that was [authorized](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=2) at the time of that application or use to be present on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) under a tolerance, exemption, [food additive](/usc/21/321.md?p=s) regulation, or other sanction then in effect under this chapter;

    unless, in the case of any tolerance or exemption revoked, suspended, or modified under this subsection or subsection [(d)](#d) or [(e)](#e), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) has issued a determination that consumption of the legally treated [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) during the period of its likely availability in [commerce](/usc/21/360hh.md?p=4) will pose an unreasonable dietary risk.

  - (6) **Tolerance for use of pesticides under an emergency exemption—** If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) grants an exemption under [section 18](/usc/21/18.md) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act ([7 U.S.C. 136p](/usc/7/136p.md)) for a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall establish a tolerance or exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2). Such a tolerance or exemption from a tolerance shall have an expiration date. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may establish such a tolerance or exemption without providing notice or a period for comment on the tolerance or exemption. The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall promulgate regulations within 365 days after August 3, 1996, governing the establishment of tolerances and exemptions under this paragraph. Such regulations shall be consistent with the safety standard under subsections [(b)(2)](#b-2) and [(c)(2)](#c-2) and with [section 18](/usc/21/18.md) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act.
- (m) **Fees—**
  - (1) **Amount—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall by regulation require the payment of such fees as will in the aggregate, in the judgment of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), be sufficient over a reasonable term to provide, equip, and maintain an adequate service for the performance of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s functions under this section. Under the regulations, the performance of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s services or other functions under this section, including—
    - (A) the acceptance for filing of a petition submitted under [subsection (d)](#d);
    - (B) establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking a tolerance or establishing, modifying, leaving in effect, or revoking an exemption from the requirement for a tolerance under this section;
    - (C) the acceptance for filing of objections under [subsection (g)](#g); or
    - (D) the certification and filing in court of a transcript of the proceedings and the record under [subsection (h)](#h);

    may be conditioned upon the payment of such fees. The regulations may further provide for waiver or refund of fees in whole or in part when in the judgment of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) such a waiver or refund is equitable and not contrary to the purposes of this subsection.

  - (2) **Deposit—** All fees collected under [paragraph (1)](#m-1) shall be deposited in the Reregistration and Expedited Processing Fund created by section 4(k) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a–1(k)](/usc/7/136a–1.md?p=k)]. Such fees shall be available to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), without fiscal year limitation, for the performance of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s services or functions as specified in [paragraph (1)](#m-1).
  - (3) **Prohibition—** During the period beginning on December 29, 2022, and ending on September 30, 2027, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall not collect any tolerance fees under [paragraph (1)](#m-1).
- (n) **National uniformity of tolerances—**
  - (1) **“Qualifying pesticide chemical residue” defined—** For purposes of this subsection, the term “qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2)” means a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) resulting from the use, in production, processing, or storage of a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), of a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that is an active ingredient and that—
    - (A) was first approved for such use in a registration of a [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) issued under section 3(c)(5) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a(c)(5)](/usc/7/136a.md?p=c-5)] on or after April 25, 1985, on the basis of data determined by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to meet all applicable requirements for data prescribed by regulations in effect under that Act [[7 U.S.C. 136](/usc/7/136.md) et seq.] on April 25, 1985; or
    - (B) was approved for such use in a reregistration eligibility determination issued under section 4(g) of that Act [[7 U.S.C. 136a–1(g)](/usc/7/136a–1.md?p=g)] on or after August 3, 1996.
  - (2) **“Qualifying Federal determination” defined—** For purposes of this subsection, the term “qualifying Federal determination” means a tolerance or exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for a qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that—
    - (A) is issued under this section after August 3, 1996, and determined by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to meet the standard under [subsection (b)(2)(A)](#b-2-A) (in the case of a tolerance) or (c)(2) (in the case of an exemption); or
    - (B)
      - (i) pursuant to [subsection (j)](#j) is remaining in effect or is deemed to have been issued under this section, or is regarded under [subsection (k)](#k) as exempt from the requirement for a tolerance; and
      - (ii) is determined by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to meet the standard under [subsection (b)(2)(A)](#b-2-A) (in the case of a tolerance) or (c)(2) (in the case of an exemption).
  - (3) **Limitation—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may make the determination described in [paragraph (2)(B)(ii)](#n-2-B-ii) only by issuing a rule in accordance with the procedure set forth in subsection [(d)](#d) or [(e)](#e) and only if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) issues a proposed rule and allows a period of not less than 30 days for comment on the proposed rule. Any such rule shall be reviewable in accordance with subsections [(g)](#g) and [(h)](#h).
  - (4) **State authority—** Except as provided in paragraphs [(5)](#n-5), [(6)](#n-6), and [(8)](#n-8) no [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) or political subdivision may establish or enforce any regulatory limit on a qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on any [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) if a qualifying Federal determination applies to the presence of such [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f), unless such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) regulatory limit is identical to such qualifying Federal determination. A [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) or political subdivision shall be deemed to establish or enforce a regulatory limit on a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) if it purports to prohibit or penalize the production, processing, shipping, or other handling of a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) because it contains a [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) residue (in excess of a prescribed limit).
  - (5) **Petition procedure—**
    - (A) **In general—** Any [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) may petition the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) for authorization to establish in such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) a regulatory limit on a qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on any [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) that is not identical to the qualifying Federal determination applicable to such qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2).
    - (B) **Petition requirements—** Any petition under [subparagraph (A)](#n-5-A) shall—
      - (i) satisfy any requirements prescribed, by rule, by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh); and
      - (ii) be supported by scientific data about the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that is the subject of the petition or about chemically related [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), data on the consumption within such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) of [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) bearing the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2), and data on exposure of humans within such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) to the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2).
    - (C) **Authorization—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may, by order, grant the authorization described in [subparagraph (A)](#n-5-A) if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the proposed [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) regulatory limit—
      - (i) is justified by compelling local conditions; and
      - (ii) would not cause any [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) to be a violation of Federal law.
    - (D) **Treatment—** In lieu of any action [authorized](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=2) under [subparagraph (C)](#n-5-C), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may treat a petition under this paragraph as a petition under [subsection (d)](#d) to modify or revoke a tolerance or an exemption. If the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines to treat a petition under this paragraph as a petition under [subsection (d)](#d), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall thereafter act on the petition pursuant to [subsection (d)](#d).
    - (E) **Review—** Any order of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) granting or denying the authorization described in [subparagraph (A)](#n-5-A) shall be subject to review in the manner described in subsections [(g)](#g) and [(h)](#h).
  - (6) **Urgent petition procedure—** Any [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) petition to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) pursuant to [paragraph (5)](#n-5) that demonstrates that consumption of a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) containing such [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) residue level during the period of the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)’s likely availability in the [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) will pose a significant public health threat from acute exposure shall be considered an urgent petition. If an order by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) to grant or deny the requested authorization in an urgent petition is not made within 30 days of receipt of the petition, the petitioning [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) may establish and enforce a temporary regulatory limit on a qualifying [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f). The temporary regulatory limit shall be validated or terminated by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s final order on the petition.
  - (7) **Residues from lawful application—** No [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) or political subdivision may enforce any regulatory limit on the level of a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) that may appear in or on any [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) if, at the time of the application of the [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) that resulted in such residue, the sale of such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) with such residue level was lawful under this section and under the law of such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1), unless the [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) demonstrates that consumption of the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) containing such [pesticide](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) residue level during the period of the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f)’s likely availability in the [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) will pose an unreasonable dietary risk to the health of [persons](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) within such [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1).
  - (8) **Savings—** Nothing in this chapter preempts the authority of any [State](/usc/21/321.md?p=a-1) or political subdivision to require that a [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) containing a [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) bear or be the subject of a warning or other statement relating to the presence of the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on such [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f).
- (o) **Consumer right to know—** Not later than 2 years after August 3, 1996, and annually thereafter, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, in consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) of Agriculture and the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) of Health and Human Services, publish in a format understandable to a lay [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e), and [distribute](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=5) to large retail grocers for public display (in a manner determined by the grocer), the following information, at a minimum:
  - (1) A discussion of the risks and benefits of [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) purchased by consumers.
  - (2) A listing of actions taken under [subparagraph (B)](#b-2-B) of subsection (b)(2) that may result in [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in or on [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) that present a yearly or lifetime risk above the risk allowed under [subparagraph (A)](#b-2-A) of such subsection, and the [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) on which the [pesticide chemicals](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) producing the residues are used.
  - (3) Recommendations to consumers for reducing dietary exposure to [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in a manner consistent with maintaining a healthy diet, including a list of [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) that may reasonably substitute for [food](/usc/21/321.md?p=f) listed under [paragraph (2)](#o-2).

  Nothing in this subsection shall prevent retail grocers from providing additional information.

- (p) **Estrogenic substances screening program—**
  - (1) **Development—** Not later than 2 years after August 3, 1996, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall in consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/21/321.md?p=d) of Health and Human Services develop a screening program, using appropriate validated test systems and other scientifically relevant information, to determine whether certain substances may have an effect in humans that is similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen, or such other endocrine effect as the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may designate.
  - (2) **Implementation—** Not later than 3 years after August 3, 1996, after obtaining public comment and review of the screening program described in [paragraph (1)](#p-1) by the scientific advisory panel established under [section 25(d)](/usc/21/25.md) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136w(d)](/usc/7/136w.md?p=d)] or the science advisory board established by section 4365[^1] of title 42, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall implement the program.
  - (3) **Substances—** In carrying out the screening program described in [paragraph (1)](#p-1), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)—
    - (A) shall provide for the testing of all [pesticide chemicals](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A); and
    - (B) may provide for the testing of any other substance that may have an effect that is cumulative to an effect of a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that a substantial population may be exposed to such substance.
  - (4) **Exemption—** Notwithstanding [paragraph (3)](#p-3), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may, by order, exempt from the requirements of this section a biologic substance or other substance if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the substance is anticipated not to produce any effect in humans similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen.
  - (5) **Collection of information—**
    - (A) **In general—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall issue an order to a registrant of a substance for which testing is required under this subsection, or to a [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) who manufactures or imports a substance for which testing is required under this subsection, to conduct testing in accordance with the screening program described in [paragraph (1)](#p-1), and submit information obtained from the testing to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), within a reasonable time period that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines is sufficient for the generation of the information.
    - (B) **Procedures—** To the extent practicable the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall minimize duplicative testing of the same substance for the same endocrine effect, develop, as appropriate, procedures for fair and equitable sharing of test costs, and develop, as necessary, procedures for handling of confidential business information.
    - (C) **Failure of registrants to submit information—**
      - (i) **Suspension—** If a registrant of a substance referred to in [paragraph (3)(A)](#p-3-A) fails to comply with an order under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall issue a notice of intent to suspend the sale or [distribution](/usc/21/360eee.md?p=5) of the substance by the registrant. Any suspension proposed under this paragraph shall become final at the end of the 30-day period beginning on the date that the registrant receives the notice of intent to suspend, unless during that period a [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) adversely affected by the notice requests a hearing or the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the registrant has complied fully with this paragraph.
      - (ii) **Hearing—** If a [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) requests a hearing under [clause (i)](#p-5-C-i), the hearing shall be conducted in accordance with [section 554 of title 5](/usc/5/554.md). The only matter for resolution at the hearing shall be whether the registrant has failed to comply with an order under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. A decision by the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) after completion of a hearing shall be considered to be a final agency action.
      - (iii) **Termination of suspensions—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall terminate a suspension under this subparagraph issued with respect to a registrant if the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines that the registrant has complied fully with this paragraph.
    - (D) **Noncompliance by other persons—** Any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) (other than a registrant) who fails to comply with an order under [subparagraph (A)](#p-5-A) shall be liable for the same penalties and sanctions as are provided under section 16 of the Toxic Substances Control Act [[15 U.S.C. 2615](/usc/15/2615.md)] in the case of a violation referred to in that section. Such penalties and sanctions shall be assessed and imposed in the same manner as provided in such section 16.
  - (6) **Agency action—** In the case of any substance that is found, as a result of testing and evaluation under this section, to have an endocrine effect on humans, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall, as appropriate, take action under such statutory authority as is available to the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh), including consideration under other sections of this chapter, as is necessary to ensure the protection of public health.
  - (7) **Report to Congress—** Not later than 4 years after August 3, 1996, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall prepare and submit to Congress a report containing—
    - (A) the findings of the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) resulting from the screening program described in [paragraph (1)](#p-1);
    - (B) recommendations for further testing needed to evaluate the impact on human health of the substances tested under the screening program; and
    - (C) recommendations for any further actions (including any action described in [paragraph (6)](#p-6)) that the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) determines are appropriate based on the findings.
- (q) **Schedule for review—**
  - (1) **In general—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall review tolerances and exemptions for [pesticide chemical residues](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) in effect on the day before August 3, 1996, as expeditiously as practicable, assuring that—
    - (A) 33 percent of such tolerances and exemptions are reviewed within 3 years of August 3, 1996;
    - (B) 66 percent of such tolerances and exemptions are reviewed within 6 years of August 3, 1996; and
    - (C) 100 percent of such tolerances and exemptions are reviewed within 10 years of August 3, 1996.

    In conducting a review of a tolerance or exemption, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall determine whether the tolerance or exemption meets the requirements of subsections[^2] (b)(2) or (c)(2) and shall, by the deadline for the review of the tolerance or exemption, issue a regulation under subsection [(d)(4)](#d-4) or [(e)(1)](#e-1) to modify or revoke the tolerance or exemption if the tolerance or exemption does not meet such requirements.

  - (2) **Priorities—** In determining priorities for reviewing tolerances and exemptions under [paragraph (1)](#q-1), the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall give priority to the review of the tolerances or exemptions that appear to pose the greatest risk to public health.
  - (3) **Publication of schedule—** Not later than 12 months after August 3, 1996, the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) shall publish a schedule for review of tolerances and exemptions established prior to August 3, 1996. The determination of priorities for the review of tolerances and exemptions pursuant to this subsection is not a rulemaking and shall not be subject to judicial review, except that failure to take final action pursuant to the schedule established by this paragraph shall be subject to judicial review.
- (r) **Temporary tolerance or exemption—** The [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh) may, upon the request of any [person](/usc/21/321.md?p=e) who has obtained an experimental permit for a [pesticide chemical](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-1-A) under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136](/usc/7/136.md) et seq.] or upon the [Administrator](/usc/21/321.md?p=hh)’s own initiative, establish a temporary tolerance or exemption for the [pesticide chemical residue](/usc/21/321.md?p=q-2) for the uses covered by the permit. Subsections [(b)(2)](#b-2), [(c)(2)](#c-2), [(d)](#d), and [(e)](#e) shall apply to actions taken under this subsection.
- (s) **Savings clause—** Nothing in this section shall be construed to amend or modify the provisions of the Toxic Substances Control Act [[15 U.S.C. 2601](/usc/15/2601.md) et seq.] or the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act [[7 U.S.C. 136](/usc/7/136.md) et seq.].

## Footnotes

[^1]: See References in Text note below.
[^2]: So in original. Probably should be “subsection”.

## Source credit

(June 25, 1938, ch. 675, § 408, as added July 22, 1954, ch. 559, § 3, 68 Stat. 511; amended Pub. L. 85–791, § 20, Aug. 28, 1958, 72 Stat. 947; Pub. L. 91–515, title VI, § 601(d)(1), Oct. 30, 1970, 84 Stat. 1311; Pub. L. 92–157, title III, § 303(a), Nov. 18, 1971, 85 Stat. 464; Pub. L. 92–516, § 3(3), Oct. 21, 1972, 86 Stat. 998; Pub. L. 98–620, title IV, § 402(25)(A), Nov. 8, 1984, 98 Stat. 3359; Pub. L. 102–300, § 6(b)(1), June 16, 1992, 106 Stat. 240; Pub. L. 102–571, title I, § 107(7), Oct. 29, 1992, 106 Stat. 4499; Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k), Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 776; Pub. L. 104–170, title IV, § 405, Aug. 3, 1996, 110 Stat. 1514; Pub. L. 105–324, § 2(b), Oct. 30, 1998, 112 Stat. 3036; Pub. L. 110–94, § 4(d)(2), Oct. 9, 2007, 121 Stat. 1002; Pub. L. 112–177, § 2(a)(3), Sept. 28, 2012, 126 Stat. 1329; Pub. L. 116–8, § 2(c), Mar. 8, 2019, 133 Stat. 485; Pub. L. 117–328, div. HH, title VI, § 703(b), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 6002.)

## Notes

### Editorial Notes

### References in Text

The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, referred to in subsec. (g)(2)(B), are set out in the Appendix to Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure.

Section 346 of this title, referred to in subsec. (j)(1), originally consisted of subsecs. (a) and (b). Subsec. (a) was redesignated as the entire section 346 and subsec. (b) was repealed by Pub. L. 86–618, title I, § 103(a)(1), 74 Stat. 398.

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, referred to in subsecs. (l), (n)(1)(A), (r), and (s), is act June 25, 1947, ch. 125, as amended generally by Pub. L. 92–516, Oct. 21, 1972, 86 Stat. 973, which is classified generally to subchapter II (§ 136 et seq.) of chapter 6 of Title 7, Agriculture. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 136 of Title 7 and Tables.

Section 4365 of title 42, referred to in subsec. (p)(2), was in the original “section 8 of the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1978”, and was translated as meaning section 8 of the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act of 1978, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

The Toxic Substances Control Act, referred to in subsec. (s), is Pub. L. 94–469, Oct. 11, 1976, 90 Stat. 2003, as amended, which is classified generally to chapter 53 (§ 2601 et seq.) of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2601 of Title 15 and Tables.

### Codification

August 3, 1996, referred to in subsecs. (k), (n)(1)(B), (2)(A), and (p)(1), (2), (7), was in the original references to the date of enactment of this subsection and the date of enactment of this section, which was translated as meaning the date of enactment of Pub. L. 104–170, which amended this section generally, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

### Amendments

2022—Subsec. (m)(3). Pub. L. 117–328 substituted “December 29, 2022, and ending on September 30, 2027” for “October 1, 2007, and ending on September 30, 2023”.

2019—Subsec. (m)(3). Pub. L. 116–8 substituted “2023” for “2017”.

2012—Subsec. (m)(3). Pub. L. 112–177 substituted “September 30, 2017” for “September 30, 2012”.

2007—Subsec. (m)(3). Pub. L. 110–94 added par. (3).

1998—Subsec. (j)(4). Pub. L. 105–324 added par. (4).

1996—Pub. L. 104–170 amended section generally, substituting, in subsec. (a), provisions relating to requirement for tolerance or exemption for provisions relating to conditions for safety; in subsec. (b), provisions relating to authority and standard for tolerance for provisions relating to establishment of tolerances; in subsec. (c), provisions relating to authority and standard for exemptions for provisions relating to exemptions; in subsec. (d), provisions relating to petition for tolerance or exemption for provisions relating to regulations pursuant to petition, publication of notice, time for issuance, referral to advisory committees, effective date, and hearings; in subsec. (e), provisions relating to action on Administrator’s own initiative for provisions relating to regulations pursuant to Administrator’s proposals; in subsec. (f), provisions relating to special data requirements for provisions relating to data submitted as confidential; in subsec. (g), provisions relating to effective date, objections, hearings, and administrative review for provisions relating to advisory committees and their appointment, composition, compensation, and clerical assistance; in subsec. (h), provisions relating to judicial review for provisions relating to right of consultation; in subsec. (i), provisions relating to confidentiality and use of data for provisions relating to judicial review; in subsec. (j), provisions relating to status of previously issued regulations for provisions relating to temporary tolerances; in subsec. (k), provisions relating to transitions for provisions relating to regulations based on public hearings before January 1, 1953; in subsec. (l), provisions relating to harmonization with action under other laws for provisions relating to pesticides under Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, functions of Administrator of Environmental Protection Agency, certifications, hearings, time limitations, opinions, and regulations; in subsec. (m), provisions relating to fees for provisions relating to amendment of regulations; in subsec. (n), provisions relating to national uniformity of tolerances for provisions relating to guaranties; in subsec. (o), provisions relating to consumer right to know for provisions relating to payment of fees, services or functions conditioned on payment, and waiver or refund of fees; and adding subsecs. (p) to (s).

1993—Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(6), substituted “Administrator” for “Secretary” wherever appearing except when followed by “of Agriculture”.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(1), substituted “Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (hereinafter in this section referred to as the ‘Administrator’)” for “Secretary of Health and Human Services”.

Subsec. (d)(5). Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(2), substituted “section 556(c) of title 5” for “section 7(c) of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C., sec. 1006(c))”.

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(3), substituted “In the event” for “It the event” before “a hearing is requested”.

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(4), made technical amendment to reference to section 333(c) of this title to reflect amendment of corresponding provision of original act.

Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 103–80, § 3(k)(5), which directed the substitution of “Administrator” for “Secretary of Health and Human Services” wherever appearing in the original text, was executed by making the substitution in the first sentence before “shall by regulation require”, the only place “Secretary of Health and Human Services” appeared in the original text.

1992—Subsecs. (a), (d), (h), (i), (l), (m), (o). Pub. L. 102–300 substituted “Health and Human Services” for “Health, Education, and Welfare” wherever appearing in the original statutory text.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 102–571 substituted “379e” for “376”.

1984—Subsec. (i)(5). Pub. L. 98–620 struck out provision that required the court to advance on the docket and expedite the disposition of all causes filed therein pursuant to this section.

1972—Subsecs. (d)(1), (e), (l). Pub. L. 92–516 substituted references to pesticide for references to economic poison wherever appearing therein.

1971—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 92–157 struck out “, which the Secretary shall by rules and regulations prescribe,” after “as compensation for their services a reasonable per diem” prior to amendment in 1970, by Pub. L. 91–515, which overlooked such language when amending subsec. (g) as provided in 1970 Amendment note.

1970—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 91–515 substituted provisions authorizing members of an advisory committee to receive compensation and travel expenses in accordance with section 376(b)(5)(D) of this title, for provisions authorizing such members to receive as compensation a reasonable per diem for time actually spent on committee work, and necessary traveling and subsistence expenses while serving away from their places of residence.

1958—Subsec. (i)(2). Pub. L. 85–791, § 20(a), in first sentence, substituted “transmitted by the clerk of the court to the Secretary, or” for “served upon the Secretary, or upon”, substituted “file in the court the record of the proceedings” for “certify and file in the court a transcript of the proceedings and the record”, and inserted “as provided in section 2112 of title 28”, and which, in second sentence, substituted “the filing of such petition” for “such filing”.

Subsec. (i)(3). Pub. L. 85–791, § 20(b), in first sentence, substituted “transmitted by the clerk of the court to the Secretary of Agriculture, or” for “served upon the Secretary of Agriculture, or upon”, substituted “file in the court the record of the proceedings” for “certify and file in the court a transcript of the proceedings and the record”, and inserted “as provided in section 2112 of title 28”, and, in second sentence, substituted “the filing of such petition” for “such filing”.

### Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

### Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–177 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 2(c) of Pub. L. 112–177, set out as a note under section 136a–1 of Title 7, Agriculture.

### Effective Date of 2007 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 110–94 effective Oct. 1, 2007, see section 6 of Pub. L. 110–94, set out as a note under section 136a of Title 7, Agriculture.

### Effective Date of 1984 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 98–620 not applicable to cases pending on Nov. 8, 1984, see section 403 of Pub. L. 98–620, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1657 of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure.

### Effective Date of 1972 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 92–516 effective at close of Oct. 21, 1972, except if regulations are necessary for implementation of any provision that becomes effective on Oct. 21, 1972, and continuation in effect of subchapter I of chapter 6 of Title 7, Agriculture, and regulations thereunder, relating to control of economic poisons, as in existence prior to Oct. 21, 1972, until superseded by provisions of Pub. L. 92–516 and regulations thereunder, see section 4 of Pub. L. 92–516, set out as an Effective Date note under section 136 of Title 7.

### Extension of Prohibition of Tolerance Fees

Pub. L. 115–141, div. M, title IV, § 401(c), Mar. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 1050, provided that: “Section 408(m)(3) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 346a(m)(3)) shall be applied by substituting ‘September 30, 2018’ for ‘September 30, 2017’.”

### Regulation of Sulfuryl Fluoride

Pub. L. 113–79, title X, § 10015, Feb. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 952, provided that: “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall exclude nonpesticideal sources of fluoride from any aggregate exposure assessment required under section 408 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 346a) when assessing tolerances associated with residues from the pesticide.”

### Tolerance Fees

Pub. L. 108–199, div. G, title V, § 501(d)(2), Jan. 23, 2004, 118 Stat. 422, provided that: “Notwithstanding section 408(m)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 346a(m)(1)), during the period beginning on October 1, 2003, and ending on September 30, 2008, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall not collect any tolerance fees under that section.”

### Data Collection Activities To Assure Health of Infants and Children

Pub. L. 104–170, title III, § 301, Aug. 3, 1996, 110 Stat. 1511, provided that: In General.—The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall coordinate the development and implementation of survey procedures to ensure that adequate data on food consumption patterns of infants and children are collected. Procedures.—To the extent practicable, the procedures referred to in subsection (a) shall include the collection of data on food consumption patterns of a statistically valid sample of infants and children. Residue Data Collection.—The Secretary of Agriculture shall ensure that the residue data collection activities conducted by the Department of Agriculture in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services, provide for the improved data collection of pesticide residues, including guidelines for the use of comparable analytical and standardized reporting methods, and the increased sampling of foods most likely consumed by infants and children.”