February 1, 2008
Seattle P-I, Letters to the Editor
EPA Responds to Seattle P-I Article on Pesticide Regulation
Your Wednesday article and editorial distort the facts about pesticide regulation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency conducts the most stringent pesticide regulatory program in the world, employing the most current scientific information and methods to ensure that pesticides do not pose risks to people or the environment. The EPA continuously reviews new information and studies about pesticides to determine if regulatory actions should be taken to restrict or remove a pesticide from the market.
The EPA has extensively evaluated chlorpyrifos, canceling many uses and putting tougher restrictions on remaining uses. The EPA is evaluating Dr. Lu's study, referenced in your paper, to determine if the study indicates the need for further restrictions for chlorpyrifos.
The EPA takes seriously its mission to protect public health and the environment. We take appropriate action when compelling scientific information supports further restrictions on any pesticide.
Debbie Edwards, Ph.D.
Director, Office of Pesticide Programs
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, D.C.
