Which federal agency regulates pesticides in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency tasked with regulating pesticides in the United States. This responsibility encompasses ensuring that pesticide substances are safe for human health and the environment before they can be sold or used. The EPA evaluates the scientific data regarding the efficacy and safety of pesticide products, reviewing their potential effects on non-target organisms, human health, and the environment.

In addition to registering pesticides, the EPA sets guidelines for their proper use, provides labeling requirements, and monitors compliance with regulations. This comprehensive oversight plays a critical role in public health and agricultural practices, ensuring that pest control measures do not pose undue risks to people or ecosystems. Other agencies mentioned, like the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Trade Commission, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, have distinct roles and responsibilities that do not focus specifically on the regulation of pesticides.