82_FR_26708 82 FR 26599 - Triclopyr; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions

82 FR 26599 - Triclopyr; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 109 (June 8, 2017)

Page Range26599-26603
FR Document2017-11928

This regulation establishes time-limited tolerances for residues of triclopyr in or on sugarcane. This action is in response to EPA's granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide on sugarcane. This regulation establishes a maximum permissible level for residues of triclopyr in or on this commodity. The time-limited tolerance will expire on December 31, 2020.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 109 (Thursday, June 8, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 109 (Thursday, June 8, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 26599-26603]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-11928]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0036; FRL-9961-29]


Triclopyr; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This regulation establishes time-limited tolerances for 
residues of triclopyr in or on sugarcane. This action is in response to 
EPA's granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, 
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide 
on sugarcane. This regulation establishes a maximum permissible level 
for residues of triclopyr in or on this commodity. The time-limited 
tolerance will expire on December 31, 2020.

DATES: This regulation is effective June 8, 2017. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before August 7, 2017, and 
must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR 
part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).

ADDRESSES: The docket for this action, identified by docket 
identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0036 is available at http://www.regulations.gov or at the Office of Pesticide Programs Regulatory 
Public Docket (OPP Docket) in the Environmental Protection Agency 
Docket Center (EPA/DC), West William Jefferson Clinton Bldg., Rm. 3334, 
1301 Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. The Public 
Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through 
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Public 
Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number for the OPP 
Docket is (703) 305-5805. Please review the visitor instructions and 
additional information about the docket available at http://www.epa.gov/dockets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael L. Goodis, Registration 
Division (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental 
Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-
0001; main telephone number: (703) 305-7090; email address: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. General Information

A. Does this action apply to me?

    You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an 
agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer. 
The following list of North American Industrial Classification System 
(NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a 
guide to help readers determine whether this document applies to them. 
Potentially affected entities may include:
    [emsp14]Crop production (NAICS code 111).
    [emsp14]Animal production (NAICS code 112).
    [emsp14]Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311).
    [emsp14]Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532).

B. How can I get electronic access to other related information?

    You may access a frequently updated electronic version of 40 CFR 
part 180 through the Government Printing Office's e-CFR site at http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl. To access the OCSPP test guidelines referenced in this 
document electronically, please go to http://www.epa.gov/ocspp and 
select ``Test Methods and Guidelines.''

C. How can I file an objection or hearing request?

    Under section 408(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act 
(FFDCA), 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an objection to any aspect 
of this regulation and may also request a hearing on those objections. 
You must file your objection or request a hearing on this regulation in 
accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure 
proper receipt by EPA, you must identify docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-
2017-0036 in the subject line on the first page of your submission. All 
objections and requests for a hearing must be in writing, and must be 
received by the Hearing Clerk on or before August 7, 2017. Addresses 
for mail and hand delivery of objections and hearing requests are 
provided in 40 CFR 178.25(b).
    In addition to filing an objection or hearing request with the 
Hearing Clerk as described in 40 CFR part 178, please submit a copy of 
the filing (excluding any Confidential Business Information (CBI)) for 
inclusion in the public docket. Information not marked confidential 
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be disclosed publicly by EPA without 
prior notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your objection or hearing 
request, identified by docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0036, by one of 
the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Do not submit 
electronically any information you consider to be CBI or other 
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
     Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental Protection Agency Docket 
Center (EPA/DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 
20460-0001.
     Hand Delivery: To make special arrangements for hand 
delivery or delivery of boxed information, please follow the 
instructions at http://www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.
    Additional instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along 
with more information about dockets generally, is available at http://www.epa.gov/dockets.

II. Background and Statutory Findings

    EPA, on its own initiative, in accordance with FFDCA sections 
408(e) and 408(l)(6) of, 21 U.S.C. 346a(e) and 346a(1)(6), is 
establishing a time-limited tolerance for residues of triclopyr (2-
[(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic acid), including its 
metabolites and degradates in or on sugarcane, cane at 40 parts per 
million (ppm). This time-limited tolerance will expire on December 31, 
2020.
    Section 408(l)(6) of FFDCA requires EPA to establish a time-limited 
tolerance or exemption from the requirement for a tolerance for 
pesticide chemical residues in food that will result from the use of a 
pesticide under an emergency exemption granted by EPA under FIFRA 
section 18. Such tolerances can be established without providing notice 
or period for public comment. EPA does not intend for its actions on 
FIFRA section 18 related time-limited tolerances to set binding 
precedents for the application of FFDCA section 408 and the safety 
standard to other tolerances and exemptions. Section 408(e) of FFDCA 
allows EPA to establish a tolerance or an exemption from the 
requirement of a tolerance on its own initiative, i.e., without having 
received any petition from an outside party.
    Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a 
tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a 
food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section 
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a 
reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure 
to the pesticide chemical residue, including

[[Page 26600]]

all anticipated dietary exposures and all other exposures for which 
there is reliable information.'' This includes exposure through 
drinking water and in residential settings, but does not include 
occupational exposure. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to 
give special consideration to exposure of infants and children to the 
pesticide chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure 
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to 
infants and children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical 
residue . . . .''
    Section 18 of FIFRA authorizes EPA to exempt any Federal or State 
agency from any provision of FIFRA, if EPA determines that ``emergency 
conditions exist which require such exemption.'' EPA has established 
regulations governing such emergency exemptions in 40 CFR part 166.

III. Emergency Exemption for Triclopyr on Sugarcane and FFDCA 
Tolerances

    The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) 
requested a quarantine emergency exemption for the use of triclopyr on 
sugarcane to control Merrill's nightshade (Solanum merrillianum Liou). 
Merrill's nightshade is a non-native plant that was introduced into the 
United States sometime before its discovery in 1976, where it has 
become a pest of importance in sugarcane in Louisiana. According to 
LDAF, Merrill's nightshade has been confirmed in 17 of the 24 sugarcane 
producing parishes. Substantial economic damage is occurring and has 
been documented at 39% reduction of tonnage and 49% reduction of 
recoverable sugar losses per acre.
    After having reviewed the submission, EPA determined that an 
emergency condition exists for this State, and that the criteria for 
approval of an emergency exemption are met. EPA has authorized a 
quarantine exemption under FIFRA section 18 for the use of triclopyr on 
sugarcane for control of Merrill's nightshade in Louisiana.
    As part of its evaluation of the emergency exemption application, 
EPA assessed the potential risks presented by residues of triclopyr in 
or on sugarcane. In doing so, EPA considered the safety standard in 
FFDCA section 408(b)(2), and EPA decided that the necessary tolerances 
under FFDCA section 408(l)(6) would be consistent with the safety 
standard and with FIFRA section 18. Consistent with the need to move 
quickly on the emergency exemption in order to address an urgent, non-
routine situation and to ensure that the resulting food is safe and 
lawful, EPA is issuing these tolerances without notice and opportunity 
for public comment as provided in FFDCA section 408(l)(6). Although 
these time-limited tolerances expire on December 31, 2020, under FFDCA 
section 408(l)(5), residues of the pesticide not in excess of the 
amounts specified in the tolerance remaining in or on sugarcane after 
that date will not be unlawful, provided the pesticide was applied in a 
manner that was lawful under FIFRA, and the residues do not exceed a 
level that was authorized by these time-limited tolerances at the time 
of that application. EPA will take action to revoke these time-limited 
tolerances earlier if any experience with, scientific data on, or other 
relevant information on this pesticide indicate that the residues are 
not safe.
    Because this time-limited tolerance is being approved under 
emergency conditions, EPA has not made any decisions about whether 
triclopyr meets FIFRA's registration requirements for use on sugarcane 
or whether permanent tolerances for this use would be appropriate. 
Under these circumstances, EPA does not believe that this time-limited 
tolerance decision serves as a basis for registration of triclopyr by a 
State for special local needs under FIFRA section 24(c), nor does this 
tolerance by itself serve as the authority for persons in any State 
other than Louisiana to use this pesticide on the applicable crop under 
FIFRA section 18, absent the issuance of an emergency exemption 
applicable within that State. For additional information regarding the 
emergency exemption for triclopyr, contact the Agency's Registration 
Division at the address provided under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.

IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety

    Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a 
tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a 
food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section 
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a 
reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure 
to the pesticide chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary 
exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable 
information.'' This includes exposure through drinking water and in 
residential settings, but does not include occupational exposure. 
Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to give special 
consideration to exposure of infants and children to the pesticide 
chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure that there 
is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to infants and 
children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue . . 
. .''
    Consistent with the factors specified in FFDCA section 
408(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available scientific data and other 
relevant information in support of this action. EPA has sufficient data 
to assess the hazards of, and to make a determination on, aggregate 
exposure expected as a result of this emergency exemption request and 
the time-limited tolerances for residues of triclopyr, including its 
metabolites and degradates on sugarcane, cane at 40 ppm. EPA's 
assessment of exposures and risks associated with establishing time-
limited tolerances follows.

A. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern

    Once a pesticide's toxicological profile is determined, EPA 
identifies toxicological points of departure (POD) and levels of 
concern to use in evaluating the risk posed by human exposure to the 
pesticide. For hazards that have a threshold below which there is no 
appreciable risk, the toxicological POD is used as the basis for 
derivation of reference values for risk assessment. PODs are developed 
based on a careful analysis of the doses in each toxicological study to 
determine the dose at which no adverse effects are observed (the NOAEL) 
and the lowest dose at which adverse effects of concern are identified 
(the LOAEL). Uncertainty/safety factors are used in conjunction with 
the POD to calculate a safe exposure level--generally referred to as a 
population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a reference dose (RfD)--and a safe 
margin of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold risks, the Agency assumes 
that any amount of exposure will lead to some degree of risk. Thus, the 
Agency estimates risk in terms of the probability of an occurrence of 
the adverse effect expected in a lifetime. For more information on the 
general principles EPA uses in risk characterization and a complete 
description of the risk assessment process, see http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm.
    A summary of the toxicological endpoints for triclopyr used for 
human risk assessment is discussed in Table 1 of the final rule 
published in the Federal Register of February 25, 2016, (81 FR 9353, 
9355-56) (FRL-9941-87).

B. Exposure Assessment

    1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary 
exposure to triclopyr, EPA considered

[[Page 26601]]

exposure under the time-limited tolerances established by this action 
as well as all existing triclopyr tolerances in 40 CFR 180.417. EPA 
assessed dietary exposures from triclopyr in food as follows:
    i. Acute exposure. Acute effects were identified for triclopyr. In 
estimating acute dietary exposure, EPA used food consumption 
information from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 
2003-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, What We Eat 
in America (NHANES/WWEIA) and the Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model-
Food Commodity Intake Database (DEEM-FCID), version 3.16. As to residue 
levels in food, EPA performed the acute analysis using DEEM-FCID to 
estimate the dietary exposure of the general U.S. population and 
various population subgroups. The acute assessment was unrefined, 
assuming that triclopyr residues are present in all commodities at 
tolerance levels and that 100% of all crops are treated (100% CT). DEEM 
version 7.81 default processing factors were used to estimate residues 
in all processed commodities. Drinking water was incorporated directly 
into the dietary assessment.
    ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure 
assessment EPA used the food consumption data from the USDA 2003-2008 
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, What We Eat in 
America (NHANES/WWEIA) and the Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model-Food 
Commodity Intake Database (DEEM-FCID), version 3.16. As to residue 
levels in food, EPA performed the chronic analysis using DEEM-FCID to 
estimate the dietary exposure of the general U.S. population and 
various population subgroups. The chronic assessment was slightly 
refined, assuming that triclopyr residues are present in all 
commodities at tolerance levels (100% CT) except milk. An anticipated 
residue calculated from a recently submitted livestock feeding study 
was used for milk.
    iii. Cancer. For the reasons discussed in a previous triclopyr 
tolerance rule February 25, 2016 (81 FR 9353, 9356) (FRL-9941-87), EPA 
has concluded that quantification of risk using a non-linear approach 
will adequately account for all chronic toxicity, including potential 
carcinogenicity that could result from exposure to triclopyr. 
Therefore, a separate dietary exposure assessment for the purpose of 
assessing cancer risk is unnecessary.
    iv. Anticipated residue and percent crop treated (PCT) information. 
Section 408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA to use available data and 
information on the anticipated residue levels of pesticide residues in 
food and the actual levels of pesticide residues that have been 
measured in food. If EPA relies on such information, EPA must require 
pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1) that data be provided 5 years after 
the tolerance is established, modified, or left in effect, 
demonstrating that the levels in food are not above the levels 
anticipated. For the present action, EPA will issue such data call-ins 
as are required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E) and authorized under 
FFDCA section 408(f)(1). Data will be required to be submitted no later 
than 5 years from the date of issuance of these tolerances.
    For this time-limited tolerance rule, the Agency assumed 100% crop 
treated for all crops.
    2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. EPA calculated and 
required setback distances from the application site to the functional 
potable water intake in order to maintain average drinking water 
concentration levels below 400 parts per billion (ppb). Since potable 
water intakes are required to be turned off until triclopyr 
concentration levels are below 400 ppb, EPA has determined that for 
acute and chronic dietary risk assessments, the water concentration 
value of 400 ppb is appropriate to use to assess the contribution to 
drinking water.
    Modeled estimates of drinking water concentrations were directly 
entered into the dietary exposure model. For acute dietary risk 
assessment, the water concentration value of 400 ppb was used to assess 
the contribution to drinking water. For chronic dietary risk 
assessment, the water concentration value of 400 ppb was used to assess 
the contribution to drinking water.
    3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is 
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary 
exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control, 
termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets).
    Triclopyr is currently registered for the following uses that could 
result in residential exposures: aquatic and turf areas. EPA assessed 
residential exposure using the following assumptions: Residential 
exposure is not anticipated from the proposed Section 18 emergency use 
for sugarcane. However, residential exposures are anticipated from 
currently registered uses of triclopyr. Exposures are expected for 
adults who apply triclopyr-containing products and for adults and 
children from post-application exposure in residential areas previously 
treated with triclopyr. These uses have all been previously assessed 
and have resulted in no risk estimates of concern for both handler and 
post-application exposures (L. Venkateshwara; 04-AUG-2015; D426070). 
Further information regarding EPA standard assumptions and generic 
inputs for residential exposures may be found at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/trac/science/trac6a05.pdf.
    4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of 
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when 
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the 
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative 
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances 
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
    Unlike other pesticides for which EPA has followed a cumulative 
risk approach based on a common mechanism of toxicity, EPA has not made 
a common mechanism of toxicity finding as to triclopyr and any other 
substances.
    3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol, commonly known as TCP, is a metabolite 
of triclopyr, chlorpyrifos, and chlorpyrifos-methyl. Risk assessment of 
TCP was conducted in 2002, and the previous conclusions that the acute 
and chronic dietary aggregate exposure estimates are below EPA's LOC 
are still valid since the tolerances changes will not have a noticeable 
effect on dietary exposures to TCP. For information regarding EPA's 
efforts to determine which chemicals have a common mechanism of 
toxicity and to evaluate the cumulative effects of such chemicals, see 
EPA's Web site at http://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/cumulative-assessment-risk-pesticides.

C. Safety Factor for Infants and Children

    1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA 
shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants 
and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal 
and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity 
and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a 
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This 
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the FQPA Safety 
Factor (SF). In applying this provision, EPA either retains the default 
value of 10X, or uses a different additional SF when reliable data 
available to EPA support the choice of a different factor.
    2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. There is evidence of 
increased qualitative susceptibility to offspring from triclopyr 
exposure in the rat two-generation reproduction study based on 
increased incidence of rare pup

[[Page 26602]]

malformations observed in the presence of parental toxicity. There is 
also potential qualitative susceptibility in the rat developmental 
toxicity study; however, the evidence was not as conclusive as the 
reproduction toxicity study. Concern is low since effects are well-
characterized with clearly established no-observed adverse-effect 
level/lowest-observed adverse-effect level (NOAEL/LOAEL) values, 
effects were seen in the presence of parental toxicity, and selected 
endpoints are protective of the observed effects.
    3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show that the 
safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the 
FQPA SF were reduced to 1X, with the exception for inhalation exposures 
where the FQPA SF is retained at 10X. These decisions are based on the 
following findings:
    i. The toxicity database for triclopyr is adequate for FQPA SF 
consideration. For assessing risks associated with inhalation 
exposures, the FQPA SF is retained at 10X to incorporate the database 
uncertainty factor (UFDB) to account for the lack of a 
subchronic inhalation toxicity study.
    ii. There is no evidence of neurotoxicity from triclopyr exposure.
    iii. Selected endpoints are protective of any observed pre- or 
post-natal offspring susceptibility.
    iv. The exposure databases are sufficient and unlikely to 
underestimate exposure. These assessments will not underestimate the 
exposure and risks posed by triclopyr.

D. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety

    EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide 
exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the 
acute PAD (aPAD) and chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer risks, EPA 
calculates the lifetime probability of acquiring cancer given the 
estimated aggregate exposure. Short-, intermediate-, and chronic-term 
risks are evaluated by comparing the estimated aggregate food, water, 
and residential exposure to the appropriate PODs to ensure that an 
adequate MOE exists.
    1. Acute risk. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this 
unit for acute exposure, the acute dietary exposure from food and water 
to triclopyr will occupy 54% of the aPAD for females 13-49 years old 
and 8% of the aPAD for all infants less than one year old (<1 year 
old), the population subgroups receiving the greatest exposure.
    2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this 
unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that chronic exposure to 
triclopyr from food and water will utilize 47% of the cPAD for all 
infants less than one year old (<1 year old), the population group 
receiving the greatest exposure. Based on the explanation in the unit 
regarding residential use patterns, chronic residential exposure to 
residues of triclopyr is not expected.
    3. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into 
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food 
and water (considered to be a background exposure level). Triclopyr is 
currently registered for uses that could result in short-term 
residential exposure, and the Agency has determined that it is 
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with 
short-term residential exposures to triclopyr.
    Using the exposure assumptions described in this unit for short-
term exposures, EPA has concluded the combined short-term food, water, 
and residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 120 for children 
one year old to less than two years old (1 to <2 years old) (dietary 
exposures with potential post-application incidental oral exposure 
resulting from the registered turf use). Because EPA's level of concern 
for triclopyr is a MOE of 100 or below, these MOEs are not of concern. 
For adults and children 3 to <6 years old, an aggregate risk index 
(ARI) is used since the POD for the oral and inhalation routes of 
exposure are the same, but the LOC values for oral (MOE<100) and 
inhalation (MOE<1000) exposures are different. The ARIs are 3.6 for 
children 3 to <6 years old (dietary exposure with post-application 
inhalation and ingestion from aquatic use), and 1.4 for adults (dietary 
exposure with handler inhalation exposure from turf use). Since EPA's 
level of concern is an ARI below 1, these ARIs are not of concern.
    4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure 
takes into account intermediate-term non-dietary, non-occupational 
exposure plus chronic exposure to food and water (considered to be a 
background exposure level).
    Although triclopyr is currently registered for uses that could 
result in intermediate-term residential exposure, the Agency has 
determined that a quantified intermediate-term aggregate assessment is 
unnecessary since the short-and intermediate-term PODs are the same and 
the short-term aggregate provides a worst-case estimate of residential 
exposures. For these reasons, the short-term aggregate is protective of 
the longer-term exposures.
    5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. A cancer aggregate 
risk assessment was not performed because a separate cancer assessment 
was not warranted (see Section B.1.iii).
    6. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA 
concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result 
to the general population, or to infants and children, from aggregate 
exposure to triclopyr residues.

V. Other Considerations

A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    Adequate enforcement methodologies (Methods ACR 77.2 and ACR 77.4 
using gas chromatography with electron-capture detection (GC/ECD); 
Method GRM 97.02 using gas chromatography with mass-spectrometry 
detection (GC/MS)) are available to enforce the tolerance expression. 
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) PESTDATA database dated 1/94 
(Pesticide Analytical Manual (PAM) Vol. 1, Appendix 1) indicates 
triclopyr is completely recovered greater than 80% (>80%) using multi-
residue method PAM Vol. 1 Section 402. Data pertaining to multi-residue 
methods testing of triclopyr and its metabolites through Protocols B, 
C, D and E have been submitted and forwarded to FDA.
    The method may be requested from: Chief, Analytical Chemistry 
Branch, Environmental Science Center, 701 Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 
20755-5350; telephone number: (410) 305-2905; email address: 
[email protected].

B. International Residue Limits

    In making its tolerance decisions, EPA seeks to harmonize U.S. 
tolerances with international standards whenever possible, consistent 
with U.S. food safety standards and agricultural practices. EPA 
considers the international maximum residue limits (MRLs) established 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA 
section 408(b)(4). The Codex Alimentarius is a joint United Nations 
Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization food 
standards program, and it is recognized as an international food safety 
standards-setting organization in trade agreements to which the United 
States is a party. EPA may establish a tolerance that is different from 
a Codex MRL; however, FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that

[[Page 26603]]

EPA explain the reasons for departing from the Codex level.
    The Codex has not established a MRL for residues of triclopyr.

VI. Conclusion

    Therefore, a time-limited tolerance is established for residues of 
triclopyr, (2-[(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic acid), including 
its metabolites and degradates in or on sugarcane, cane at 40 ppm. This 
tolerance will expire on December 31, 2020.

VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    This action establishes tolerances under FFDCA sections 408(e) and 
408(l)(6). The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted these 
types of actions from review under Executive Order 12866, entitled 
``Regulatory Planning and Review'' (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993). 
Because this action has been exempted from review under Executive Order 
12866, this action is not subject to Executive Order 13211, entitled 
``Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy 
Supply, Distribution, or Use'' (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive 
Order 13045, entitled ``Protection of Children from Environmental 
Health Risks and Safety Risks'' (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997). This 
action does not contain any information collections subject to OMB 
approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. 3501 et 
seq., nor does it require any special considerations under Executive 
Order 12898, entitled ``Federal Actions to Address Environmental 
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations'' (59 FR 
7629, February 16, 1994).
    Since tolerances and exemptions that are established in accordance 
with FFDCA sections 408(e) and 408(l)(6), such as the tolerances in 
this final rule, do not require the issuance of a proposed rule, the 
requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et 
seq.) do not apply.
    This action directly regulates growers, food processors, food 
handlers, and food retailers, not States or tribes, nor does this 
action alter the relationships or distribution of power and 
responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption provisions 
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency has determined that 
this action will not have a substantial direct effect on States or 
tribal governments, on the relationship between the national government 
and the States or tribal governments, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government or between 
the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Thus, the Agency has 
determined that Executive Order 13132, entitled ``Federalism'' (64 FR 
43255, August 10, 1999) and Executive Order 13175, entitled 
``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments'' (65 FR 
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply to this action. In addition, this 
action does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any unfunded 
mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act 
(UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
    This action does not involve any technical standards that would 
require Agency consideration of voluntary consensus standards pursuant 
to section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement 
Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).

VIII. Congressional Review Act

    Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), 
EPA has submitted a report containing this rule and other required 
information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and 
the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of 
the rule in the Federal Register. This action is not a ``major rule'' 
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180

    Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, 
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

    Dated: May 10, 2017.
Michael Goodis,
Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs.

    Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows:

PART 180--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.


0
2. In Sec.  180.417, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  180.417   Triclopyr; tolerances for residues.

* * * * *
    (b) Section 18 emergency exemptions. Time-limited tolerances 
specified in the following table are established for residues of the 
triclopyr (2-[(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic acid), including 
its metabolites and degradates in or on the specified agricultural 
commodities, resulting from use of the pesticide pursuant to FIFRA 
section 18 emergency exemptions. The tolerances expire on the date 
specified in the table.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Parts per    Expiration
                  Commodity                      million        date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sugarcane, cane.............................           40    12/31/2020
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2017-11928 Filed 6-7-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P



                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 109 / Thursday, June 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                          26599

                                                  *      *     *       *      *                           I. General Information                                 by docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–
                                                  [FR Doc. 2017–11903 Filed 6–7–17; 8:45 am]                                                                     2017–0036, by one of the following
                                                                                                          A. Does this action apply to me?
                                                  BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                                                                         methods:
                                                                                                             You may be potentially affected by                    • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://
                                                                                                          this action if you are an agricultural                 www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
                                                  ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION                                producer, food manufacturer, or                        instructions for submitting comments.
                                                  AGENCY                                                  pesticide manufacturer. The following                  Do not submit electronically any
                                                                                                          list of North American Industrial                      information you consider to be CBI or
                                                  40 CFR Part 180                                         Classification System (NAICS) codes is                 other information whose disclosure is
                                                  [EPA–HQ–OPP–2017–0036; FRL–9961–29]                     not intended to be exhaustive, but rather              restricted by statute.
                                                                                                          provides a guide to help readers                         • Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental
                                                  Triclopyr; Pesticide Tolerances for                     determine whether this document                        Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/
                                                  Emergency Exemptions                                    applies to them. Potentially affected                  DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave.
                                                                                                          entities may include:                                  NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001.
                                                  AGENCY:  Environmental Protection                          • Crop production (NAICS code 111).                   • Hand Delivery: To make special
                                                  Agency (EPA).                                              • Animal production (NAICS code                     arrangements for hand delivery or
                                                  ACTION: Final rule.                                     112).                                                  delivery of boxed information, please
                                                                                                             • Food manufacturing (NAICS code                    follow the instructions at http://
                                                  SUMMARY:    This regulation establishes                 311).                                                  www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.
                                                  time-limited tolerances for residues of                    • Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS                      Additional instructions on
                                                  triclopyr in or on sugarcane. This action               code 32532).                                           commenting or visiting the docket,
                                                  is in response to EPA’s granting of an                                                                         along with more information about
                                                  emergency exemption under the Federal                   B. How can I get electronic access to
                                                                                                                                                                 dockets generally, is available at http://
                                                  Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide                 other related information?
                                                                                                                                                                 www.epa.gov/dockets.
                                                  Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the                        You may access a frequently updated
                                                  pesticide on sugarcane. This regulation                 electronic version of 40 CFR part 180                  II. Background and Statutory Findings
                                                  establishes a maximum permissible                       through the Government Printing                           EPA, on its own initiative, in
                                                  level for residues of triclopyr in or on                Office’s e-CFR site at http://                         accordance with FFDCA sections 408(e)
                                                  this commodity. The time-limited                        www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-                             and 408(l)(6) of, 21 U.S.C. 346a(e) and
                                                  tolerance will expire on December 31,                   idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/                   346a(1)(6), is establishing a time-limited
                                                  2020.                                                   40tab_02.tpl. To access the OCSPP test                 tolerance for residues of triclopyr (2-
                                                  DATES: This regulation is effective June                guidelines referenced in this document                 [(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic
                                                  8, 2017. Objections and requests for                    electronically, please go to http://                   acid), including its metabolites and
                                                  hearings must be received on or before                  www.epa.gov/ocspp and select ‘‘Test                    degradates in or on sugarcane, cane at
                                                  August 7, 2017, and must be filed in                    Methods and Guidelines.’’                              40 parts per million (ppm). This time-
                                                  accordance with the instructions                                                                               limited tolerance will expire on
                                                                                                          C. How can I file an objection or hearing              December 31, 2020.
                                                  provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also                   request?
                                                  Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY                                                                                    Section 408(l)(6) of FFDCA requires
                                                  INFORMATION).                                             Under section 408(g) of the Federal                  EPA to establish a time-limited
                                                                                                          Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA),                  tolerance or exemption from the
                                                  ADDRESSES: The docket for this action,                  21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an                 requirement for a tolerance for pesticide
                                                  identified by docket identification (ID)                objection to any aspect of this regulation             chemical residues in food that will
                                                  number EPA–HQ–OPP–2017–0036 is                          and may also request a hearing on those                result from the use of a pesticide under
                                                  available at http://www.regulations.gov                 objections. You must file your objection               an emergency exemption granted by
                                                  or at the Office of Pesticide Programs                  or request a hearing on this regulation                EPA under FIFRA section 18. Such
                                                  Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)                   in accordance with the instructions                    tolerances can be established without
                                                  in the Environmental Protection Agency                  provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure                 providing notice or period for public
                                                  Docket Center (EPA/DC), West William                    proper receipt by EPA, you must                        comment. EPA does not intend for its
                                                  Jefferson Clinton Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301                 identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–                      actions on FIFRA section 18 related
                                                  Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC                   OPP–2017–0036 in the subject line on                   time-limited tolerances to set binding
                                                  20460–0001. The Public Reading Room                     the first page of your submission. All                 precedents for the application of FFDCA
                                                  is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,                    objections and requests for a hearing                  section 408 and the safety standard to
                                                  Monday through Friday, excluding legal                  must be in writing, and must be                        other tolerances and exemptions.
                                                  holidays. The telephone number for the                  received by the Hearing Clerk on or                    Section 408(e) of FFDCA allows EPA to
                                                  Public Reading Room is (202) 566–1744,                  before August 7, 2017. Addresses for                   establish a tolerance or an exemption
                                                  and the telephone number for the OPP                    mail and hand delivery of objections                   from the requirement of a tolerance on
                                                  Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review                 and hearing requests are provided in 40                its own initiative, i.e., without having
                                                  the visitor instructions and additional                 CFR 178.25(b).                                         received any petition from an outside
                                                  information about the docket available                    In addition to filing an objection or                party.
                                                  at http://www.epa.gov/dockets.                          hearing request with the Hearing Clerk                    Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
                                                  FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                        as described in 40 CFR part 178, please                allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES




                                                  Michael L. Goodis, Registration Division                submit a copy of the filing (excluding                 legal limit for a pesticide chemical
                                                  (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs,                  any Confidential Business Information                  residue in or on a food) only if EPA
                                                  Environmental Protection Agency, 1200                   (CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket.             determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
                                                  Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,                      Information not marked confidential                    Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
                                                  DC 20460–0001; main telephone                           pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be                       defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
                                                  number: (703) 305–7090; email address:                  disclosed publicly by EPA without prior                reasonable certainty that no harm will
                                                  RDFRNotices@epa.gov.                                    notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your                result from aggregate exposure to the
                                                  SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              objection or hearing request, identified               pesticide chemical residue, including


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                                                  26600               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 109 / Thursday, June 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  all anticipated dietary exposures and all               food is safe and lawful, EPA is issuing                reasonable certainty that no harm will
                                                  other exposures for which there is                      these tolerances without notice and                    result to infants and children from
                                                  reliable information.’’ This includes                   opportunity for public comment as                      aggregate exposure to the pesticide
                                                  exposure through drinking water and in                  provided in FFDCA section 408(l)(6).                   chemical residue . . . .’’
                                                  residential settings, but does not include              Although these time-limited tolerances                   Consistent with the factors specified
                                                  occupational exposure. Section                          expire on December 31, 2020, under                     in FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has
                                                  408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to                   FFDCA section 408(l)(5), residues of the               reviewed the available scientific data
                                                  give special consideration to exposure                  pesticide not in excess of the amounts                 and other relevant information in
                                                  of infants and children to the pesticide                specified in the tolerance remaining in                support of this action. EPA has
                                                  chemical residue in establishing a                      or on sugarcane after that date will not               sufficient data to assess the hazards of,
                                                  tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a               be unlawful, provided the pesticide was                and to make a determination on,
                                                  reasonable certainty that no harm will                  applied in a manner that was lawful                    aggregate exposure expected as a result
                                                  result to infants and children from                     under FIFRA, and the residues do not                   of this emergency exemption request
                                                  aggregate exposure to the pesticide                     exceed a level that was authorized by                  and the time-limited tolerances for
                                                  chemical residue . . . .’’                              these time-limited tolerances at the time              residues of triclopyr, including its
                                                     Section 18 of FIFRA authorizes EPA                   of that application. EPA will take action              metabolites and degradates on
                                                  to exempt any Federal or State agency                   to revoke these time-limited tolerances                sugarcane, cane at 40 ppm. EPA’s
                                                  from any provision of FIFRA, if EPA                     earlier if any experience with, scientific             assessment of exposures and risks
                                                  determines that ‘‘emergency conditions                  data on, or other relevant information                 associated with establishing time-
                                                  exist which require such exemption.’’                   on this pesticide indicate that the                    limited tolerances follows.
                                                  EPA has established regulations                         residues are not safe.                                 A. Toxicological Points of Departure/
                                                  governing such emergency exemptions                       Because this time-limited tolerance is
                                                                                                                                                                 Levels of Concern
                                                  in 40 CFR part 166.                                     being approved under emergency
                                                                                                          conditions, EPA has not made any                          Once a pesticide’s toxicological
                                                  III. Emergency Exemption for Triclopyr                                                                         profile is determined, EPA identifies
                                                                                                          decisions about whether triclopyr meets
                                                  on Sugarcane and FFDCA Tolerances                                                                              toxicological points of departure (POD)
                                                                                                          FIFRA’s registration requirements for
                                                     The Louisiana Department of                          use on sugarcane or whether permanent                  and levels of concern to use in
                                                  Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF)                         tolerances for this use would be                       evaluating the risk posed by human
                                                  requested a quarantine emergency                        appropriate. Under these circumstances,                exposure to the pesticide. For hazards
                                                  exemption for the use of triclopyr on                   EPA does not believe that this time-                   that have a threshold below which there
                                                  sugarcane to control Merrill’s                          limited tolerance decision serves as a                 is no appreciable risk, the toxicological
                                                  nightshade (Solanum merrillianum                        basis for registration of triclopyr by a               POD is used as the basis for derivation
                                                  Liou). Merrill’s nightshade is a non-                   State for special local needs under                    of reference values for risk assessment.
                                                  native plant that was introduced into                   FIFRA section 24(c), nor does this                     PODs are developed based on a careful
                                                  the United States sometime before its                   tolerance by itself serve as the authority             analysis of the doses in each
                                                  discovery in 1976, where it has become                  for persons in any State other than                    toxicological study to determine the
                                                  a pest of importance in sugarcane in                    Louisiana to use this pesticide on the                 dose at which no adverse effects are
                                                  Louisiana. According to LDAF, Merrill’s                 applicable crop under FIFRA section 18,                observed (the NOAEL) and the lowest
                                                  nightshade has been confirmed in 17 of                  absent the issuance of an emergency                    dose at which adverse effects of concern
                                                  the 24 sugarcane producing parishes.                    exemption applicable within that State.                are identified (the LOAEL). Uncertainty/
                                                  Substantial economic damage is                          For additional information regarding the               safety factors are used in conjunction
                                                  occurring and has been documented at                    emergency exemption for triclopyr,                     with the POD to calculate a safe
                                                  39% reduction of tonnage and 49%                        contact the Agency’s Registration                      exposure level—generally referred to as
                                                  reduction of recoverable sugar losses per               Division at the address provided under                 a population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a
                                                  acre.                                                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.                       reference dose (RfD)—and a safe margin
                                                     After having reviewed the                                                                                   of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold
                                                  submission, EPA determined that an                      IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
                                                                                                                                                                 risks, the Agency assumes that any
                                                  emergency condition exists for this                     Determination of Safety
                                                                                                                                                                 amount of exposure will lead to some
                                                  State, and that the criteria for approval                  Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA                    degree of risk. Thus, the Agency
                                                  of an emergency exemption are met.                      allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the               estimates risk in terms of the probability
                                                  EPA has authorized a quarantine                         legal limit for a pesticide chemical                   of an occurrence of the adverse effect
                                                  exemption under FIFRA section 18 for                    residue in or on a food) only if EPA                   expected in a lifetime. For more
                                                  the use of triclopyr on sugarcane for                   determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’             information on the general principles
                                                  control of Merrill’s nightshade in                      Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA                      EPA uses in risk characterization and a
                                                  Louisiana.                                              defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a             complete description of the risk
                                                     As part of its evaluation of the                     reasonable certainty that no harm will                 assessment process, see http://
                                                  emergency exemption application, EPA                    result from aggregate exposure to the                  www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/
                                                  assessed the potential risks presented by               pesticide chemical residue, including                  riskassess.htm.
                                                  residues of triclopyr in or on sugarcane.               all anticipated dietary exposures and all                 A summary of the toxicological
                                                  In doing so, EPA considered the safety                  other exposures for which there is                     endpoints for triclopyr used for human
                                                  standard in FFDCA section 408(b)(2),                    reliable information.’’ This includes                  risk assessment is discussed in Table 1
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES




                                                  and EPA decided that the necessary                      exposure through drinking water and in                 of the final rule published in the
                                                  tolerances under FFDCA section                          residential settings, but does not include             Federal Register of February 25, 2016,
                                                  408(l)(6) would be consistent with the                  occupational exposure. Section                         (81 FR 9353, 9355–56) (FRL–9941–87).
                                                  safety standard and with FIFRA section                  408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
                                                  18. Consistent with the need to move                    give special consideration to exposure                 B. Exposure Assessment
                                                  quickly on the emergency exemption in                   of infants and children to the pesticide                 1. Dietary exposure from food and
                                                  order to address an urgent, non-routine                 chemical residue in establishing a                     feed uses. In evaluating dietary
                                                  situation and to ensure that the resulting              tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a              exposure to triclopyr, EPA considered


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                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 109 / Thursday, June 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                         26601

                                                  exposure under the time-limited                         pesticide residues in food and the actual              handler and post-application exposures
                                                  tolerances established by this action as                levels of pesticide residues that have                 (L. Venkateshwara; 04–AUG–2015;
                                                  well as all existing triclopyr tolerances               been measured in food. If EPA relies on                D426070). Further information
                                                  in 40 CFR 180.417. EPA assessed dietary                 such information, EPA must require                     regarding EPA standard assumptions
                                                  exposures from triclopyr in food as                     pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1)                    and generic inputs for residential
                                                  follows:                                                that data be provided 5 years after the                exposures may be found at: http://
                                                     i. Acute exposure. Acute effects were                tolerance is established, modified, or                 www.epa.gov/pesticides/trac/science/
                                                  identified for triclopyr. In estimating                 left in effect, demonstrating that the                 trac6a05.pdf.
                                                  acute dietary exposure, EPA used food                   levels in food are not above the levels                   4. Cumulative effects from substances
                                                  consumption information from the                        anticipated. For the present action, EPA               with a common mechanism of toxicity.
                                                  United States Department of Agriculture                 will issue such data call-ins as are                   Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA
                                                  (USDA) 2003–2008 National Health and                    required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E)                 requires that, when considering whether
                                                  Nutrition Examination Survey, What We                   and authorized under FFDCA section                     to establish, modify, or revoke a
                                                  Eat in America (NHANES/WWEIA) and                       408(f)(1). Data will be required to be                 tolerance, the Agency consider
                                                  the Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model-                  submitted no later than 5 years from the               ‘‘available information’’ concerning the
                                                  Food Commodity Intake Database                          date of issuance of these tolerances.                  cumulative effects of a particular
                                                  (DEEM-FCID), version 3.16. As to                           For this time-limited tolerance rule,               pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other
                                                  residue levels in food, EPA performed                   the Agency assumed 100% crop treated                   substances that have a common
                                                  the acute analysis using DEEM-FCID to                   for all crops.                                         mechanism of toxicity.’’
                                                  estimate the dietary exposure of the                       2. Dietary exposure from drinking                      Unlike other pesticides for which EPA
                                                  general U.S. population and various                     water. EPA calculated and required                     has followed a cumulative risk approach
                                                  population subgroups. The acute                         setback distances from the application                 based on a common mechanism of
                                                  assessment was unrefined, assuming                      site to the functional potable water                   toxicity, EPA has not made a common
                                                  that triclopyr residues are present in all              intake in order to maintain average                    mechanism of toxicity finding as to
                                                  commodities at tolerance levels and that                drinking water concentration levels                    triclopyr and any other substances.
                                                  100% of all crops are treated (100% CT).                below 400 parts per billion (ppb). Since                  3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol, commonly
                                                  DEEM version 7.81 default processing                    potable water intakes are required to be               known as TCP, is a metabolite of
                                                  factors were used to estimate residues in               turned off until triclopyr concentration               triclopyr, chlorpyrifos, and chlorpyrifos-
                                                  all processed commodities. Drinking                     levels are below 400 ppb, EPA has                      methyl. Risk assessment of TCP was
                                                  water was incorporated directly into the                determined that for acute and chronic                  conducted in 2002, and the previous
                                                  dietary assessment.                                     dietary risk assessments, the water                    conclusions that the acute and chronic
                                                     ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting                  concentration value of 400 ppb is                      dietary aggregate exposure estimates are
                                                  the chronic dietary exposure assessment                 appropriate to use to assess the                       below EPA’s LOC are still valid since
                                                  EPA used the food consumption data                      contribution to drinking water.                        the tolerances changes will not have a
                                                  from the USDA 2003–2008 National                           Modeled estimates of drinking water                 noticeable effect on dietary exposures to
                                                  Health and Nutrition Examination                        concentrations were directly entered                   TCP. For information regarding EPA’s
                                                  Survey, What We Eat in America                          into the dietary exposure model. For                   efforts to determine which chemicals
                                                  (NHANES/WWEIA) and the Dietary                          acute dietary risk assessment, the water               have a common mechanism of toxicity
                                                  Exposure Evaluation Model-Food                          concentration value of 400 ppb was                     and to evaluate the cumulative effects of
                                                  Commodity Intake Database (DEEM-                        used to assess the contribution to                     such chemicals, see EPA’s Web site at
                                                  FCID), version 3.16. As to residue levels               drinking water. For chronic dietary risk               http://www.epa.gov/pesticide-science-
                                                  in food, EPA performed the chronic                      assessment, the water concentration                    and-assessing-pesticide-risks/
                                                  analysis using DEEM-FCID to estimate                    value of 400 ppb was used to assess the                cumulative-assessment-risk-pesticides.
                                                  the dietary exposure of the general U.S.                contribution to drinking water.
                                                                                                             3. From non-dietary exposure. The                   C. Safety Factor for Infants and Children
                                                  population and various population
                                                  subgroups. The chronic assessment was                   term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in                  1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
                                                  slightly refined, assuming that triclopyr               this document to refer to non-                         FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply
                                                  residues are present in all commodities                 occupational, non-dietary exposure                     an additional tenfold (10X) margin of
                                                  at tolerance levels (100% CT) except                    (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,               safety for infants and children in the
                                                  milk. An anticipated residue calculated                 indoor pest control, termiticides, and                 case of threshold effects to account for
                                                  from a recently submitted livestock                     flea and tick control on pets).                        prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the
                                                  feeding study was used for milk.                           Triclopyr is currently registered for               completeness of the database on toxicity
                                                     iii. Cancer. For the reasons discussed               the following uses that could result in                and exposure unless EPA determines
                                                  in a previous triclopyr tolerance rule                  residential exposures: aquatic and turf                based on reliable data that a different
                                                  February 25, 2016 (81 FR 9353, 9356)                    areas. EPA assessed residential exposure               margin of safety will be safe for infants
                                                  (FRL–9941–87), EPA has concluded that                   using the following assumptions:                       and children. This additional margin of
                                                  quantification of risk using a non-linear               Residential exposure is not anticipated                safety is commonly referred to as the
                                                  approach will adequately account for all                from the proposed Section 18                           FQPA Safety Factor (SF). In applying
                                                  chronic toxicity, including potential                   emergency use for sugarcane. However,                  this provision, EPA either retains the
                                                  carcinogenicity that could result from                  residential exposures are anticipated                  default value of 10X, or uses a different
                                                  exposure to triclopyr. Therefore, a                     from currently registered uses of                      additional SF when reliable data
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES




                                                  separate dietary exposure assessment for                triclopyr. Exposures are expected for                  available to EPA support the choice of
                                                  the purpose of assessing cancer risk is                 adults who apply triclopyr-containing                  a different factor.
                                                  unnecessary.                                            products and for adults and children                      2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.
                                                     iv. Anticipated residue and percent                  from post-application exposure in                      There is evidence of increased
                                                  crop treated (PCT) information. Section                 residential areas previously treated with              qualitative susceptibility to offspring
                                                  408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA                    triclopyr. These uses have all been                    from triclopyr exposure in the rat two-
                                                  to use available data and information on                previously assessed and have resulted                  generation reproduction study based on
                                                  the anticipated residue levels of                       in no risk estimates of concern for both               increased incidence of rare pup


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                                                  26602               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 109 / Thursday, June 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  malformations observed in the presence                     2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure                 residential exposures. For these reasons,
                                                  of parental toxicity. There is also                     assumptions described in this unit for                 the short-term aggregate is protective of
                                                  potential qualitative susceptibility in                 chronic exposure, EPA has concluded                    the longer-term exposures.
                                                  the rat developmental toxicity study;                   that chronic exposure to triclopyr from                   5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
                                                  however, the evidence was not as                        food and water will utilize 47% of the                 population. A cancer aggregate risk
                                                  conclusive as the reproduction toxicity                 cPAD for all infants less than one year                assessment was not performed because
                                                  study. Concern is low since effects are                 old (<1 year old), the population group                a separate cancer assessment was not
                                                  well-characterized with clearly                         receiving the greatest exposure. Based                 warranted (see Section B.1.iii).
                                                  established no-observed adverse-effect                  on the explanation in the unit regarding                  6. Determination of safety. Based on
                                                  level/lowest-observed adverse-effect                    residential use patterns, chronic                      these risk assessments, EPA concludes
                                                  level (NOAEL/LOAEL) values, effects                     residential exposure to residues of
                                                                                                                                                                 that there is a reasonable certainty that
                                                  were seen in the presence of parental                   triclopyr is not expected.
                                                                                                                                                                 no harm will result to the general
                                                  toxicity, and selected endpoints are                       3. Short-term risk. Short-term
                                                                                                          aggregate exposure takes into account                  population, or to infants and children,
                                                  protective of the observed effects.                                                                            from aggregate exposure to triclopyr
                                                     3. Conclusion. EPA has determined                    short-term residential exposure plus
                                                                                                          chronic exposure to food and water                     residues.
                                                  that reliable data show that the safety of
                                                  infants and children would be                           (considered to be a background                         V. Other Considerations
                                                  adequately protected if the FQPA SF                     exposure level). Triclopyr is currently
                                                                                                          registered for uses that could result in               A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
                                                  were reduced to 1X, with the exception
                                                  for inhalation exposures where the                      short-term residential exposure, and the                  Adequate enforcement methodologies
                                                  FQPA SF is retained at 10X. These                       Agency has determined that it is                       (Methods ACR 77.2 and ACR 77.4 using
                                                  decisions are based on the following                    appropriate to aggregate chronic                       gas chromatography with electron-
                                                  findings:                                               exposure through food and water with                   capture detection (GC/ECD); Method
                                                     i. The toxicity database for triclopyr is            short-term residential exposures to                    GRM 97.02 using gas chromatography
                                                  adequate for FQPA SF consideration.                     triclopyr.                                             with mass-spectrometry detection (GC/
                                                                                                             Using the exposure assumptions                      MS)) are available to enforce the
                                                  For assessing risks associated with
                                                                                                          described in this unit for short-term                  tolerance expression. The Food and
                                                  inhalation exposures, the FQPA SF is
                                                                                                          exposures, EPA has concluded the                       Drug Administration (FDA) PESTDATA
                                                  retained at 10X to incorporate the
                                                                                                          combined short-term food, water, and                   database dated 1/94 (Pesticide
                                                  database uncertainty factor (UFDB) to
                                                                                                          residential exposures result in aggregate              Analytical Manual (PAM) Vol. 1,
                                                  account for the lack of a subchronic
                                                                                                          MOEs of 120 for children one year old                  Appendix 1) indicates triclopyr is
                                                  inhalation toxicity study.                              to less than two years old (1 to <2 years
                                                     ii. There is no evidence of                                                                                 completely recovered greater than 80%
                                                                                                          old) (dietary exposures with potential                 (>80%) using multi-residue method
                                                  neurotoxicity from triclopyr exposure.                  post-application incidental oral
                                                     iii. Selected endpoints are protective                                                                      PAM Vol. 1 Section 402. Data pertaining
                                                                                                          exposure resulting from the registered                 to multi-residue methods testing of
                                                  of any observed pre- or post-natal                      turf use). Because EPA’s level of
                                                  offspring susceptibility.                                                                                      triclopyr and its metabolites through
                                                                                                          concern for triclopyr is a MOE of 100 or               Protocols B, C, D and E have been
                                                     iv. The exposure databases are                       below, these MOEs are not of concern.
                                                  sufficient and unlikely to underestimate                                                                       submitted and forwarded to FDA.
                                                                                                          For adults and children 3 to <6 years
                                                  exposure. These assessments will not                    old, an aggregate risk index (ARI) is                     The method may be requested from:
                                                  underestimate the exposure and risks                    used since the POD for the oral and                    Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
                                                  posed by triclopyr.                                     inhalation routes of exposure are the                  Environmental Science Center, 701
                                                                                                          same, but the LOC values for oral                      Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
                                                  D. Aggregate Risks and Determination of                                                                        telephone number: (410) 305–2905;
                                                  Safety                                                  (MOE<100) and inhalation (MOE<1000)
                                                                                                          exposures are different. The ARIs are 3.6              email address: residuemethods@
                                                     EPA determines whether acute and                     for children 3 to <6 years old (dietary                epa.gov.
                                                  chronic dietary pesticide exposures are                 exposure with post-application                         B. International Residue Limits
                                                  safe by comparing aggregate exposure                    inhalation and ingestion from aquatic
                                                  estimates to the acute PAD (aPAD) and                   use), and 1.4 for adults (dietary                        In making its tolerance decisions, EPA
                                                  chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer                   exposure with handler inhalation                       seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with
                                                  risks, EPA calculates the lifetime                      exposure from turf use). Since EPA’s                   international standards whenever
                                                  probability of acquiring cancer given the               level of concern is an ARI below 1, these              possible, consistent with U.S. food
                                                  estimated aggregate exposure. Short-,                   ARIs are not of concern.                               safety standards and agricultural
                                                  intermediate-, and chronic-term risks                      4. Intermediate-term risk.                          practices. EPA considers the
                                                  are evaluated by comparing the                          Intermediate-term aggregate exposure                   international maximum residue limits
                                                  estimated aggregate food, water, and                    takes into account intermediate-term                   (MRLs) established by the Codex
                                                  residential exposure to the appropriate                 non-dietary, non-occupational exposure                 Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as
                                                  PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE                     plus chronic exposure to food and water                required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).
                                                  exists.                                                 (considered to be a background                         The Codex Alimentarius is a joint
                                                     1. Acute risk. Using the exposure                    exposure level).                                       United Nations Food and Agriculture
                                                  assumptions discussed in this unit for                     Although triclopyr is currently                     Organization/World Health
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                                                  acute exposure, the acute dietary                       registered for uses that could result in               Organization food standards program,
                                                  exposure from food and water to                         intermediate-term residential exposure,                and it is recognized as an international
                                                  triclopyr will occupy 54% of the aPAD                   the Agency has determined that a                       food safety standards-setting
                                                  for females 13–49 years old and 8% of                   quantified intermediate-term aggregate                 organization in trade agreements to
                                                  the aPAD for all infants less than one                  assessment is unnecessary since the                    which the United States is a party. EPA
                                                  year old (<1 year old), the population                  short-and intermediate-term PODs are                   may establish a tolerance that is
                                                  subgroups receiving the greatest                        the same and the short-term aggregate                  different from a Codex MRL; however,
                                                  exposure.                                               provides a worst-case estimate of                      FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that


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                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 109 / Thursday, June 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                                26603

                                                  EPA explain the reasons for departing                   various levels of government or between                emergency exemptions. The tolerances
                                                  from the Codex level.                                   the Federal Government and Indian                      expire on the date specified in the table.
                                                     The Codex has not established a MRL                  tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined
                                                  for residues of triclopyr.                              that Executive Order 13132, entitled                                               Parts per   Expiration
                                                                                                                                                                         Commodity            million      date
                                                  VI. Conclusion                                          ‘‘Federalism’’ (64 FR 43255, August 10,
                                                                                                          1999) and Executive Order 13175,                       Sugarcane, cane .........        40     12/31/2020
                                                     Therefore, a time-limited tolerance is               entitled ‘‘Consultation and Coordination
                                                  established for residues of triclopyr, (2-              with Indian Tribal Governments’’ (65 FR                *       *      *      *      *
                                                  [(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic                67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply                  [FR Doc. 2017–11928 Filed 6–7–17; 8:45 am]
                                                  acid), including its metabolites and                    to this action. In addition, this action               BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
                                                  degradates in or on sugarcane, cane at                  does not impose any enforceable duty or
                                                  40 ppm. This tolerance will expire on                   contain any unfunded mandate as
                                                  December 31, 2020.                                      described under Title II of the Unfunded               ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                                                                                          Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) (2 U.S.C.                   AGENCY
                                                  VII. Statutory and Executive Order
                                                  Reviews                                                 1501 et seq.).                                         40 CFR Part 232
                                                                                                             This action does not involve any
                                                     This action establishes tolerances
                                                                                                          technical standards that would require                 404 Program Definitions; Exempt
                                                  under FFDCA sections 408(e) and
                                                                                                          Agency consideration of voluntary                      Activities Not Requiring 404 Permits
                                                  408(l)(6). The Office of Management and
                                                                                                          consensus standards pursuant to section
                                                  Budget (OMB) has exempted these types                                                                          CFR Correction
                                                  of actions from review under Executive                  12(d) of the National Technology
                                                  Order 12866, entitled ‘‘Regulatory                      Transfer and Advancement Act
                                                                                                                                                                 ■ In Title 40 of the Code of Federal
                                                  Planning and Review’’ (58 FR 51735,                     (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
                                                                                                                                                                 Regulations, Parts 190 to 259, revised as
                                                  October 4, 1993). Because this action                   VIII. Congressional Review Act                         of July 1, 2016, on page 319, in § 232.2,
                                                  has been exempted from review under                       Pursuant to the Congressional Review                 the first definition of Waters of the
                                                  Executive Order 12866, this action is                   Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA has                    United States is removed.
                                                  not subject to Executive Order 13211,                   submitted a report containing this rule                [FR Doc. 2017–11894 Filed 6–7–17; 8:45 am]
                                                  entitled ‘‘Actions Concerning                           and other required information to the                  BILLING CODE 1301–00–D
                                                  Regulations That Significantly Affect                   U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of
                                                  Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use’’ (66               Representatives, and the Comptroller
                                                  FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive                    General of the United States prior to
                                                  Order 13045, entitled ‘‘Protection of                                                                          DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
                                                                                                          publication of the rule in the Federal
                                                  Children from Environmental Health                      Register. This action is not a ‘‘major                 National Oceanic and Atmospheric
                                                  Risks and Safety Risks’’ (62 FR 19885,                  rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).                  Administration
                                                  April 23, 1997). This action does not
                                                  contain any information collections                     List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180                    50 CFR Part 635
                                                  subject to OMB approval under the                         Environmental protection,
                                                  Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), 44                       Administrative practice and procedure,                 [Docket No. 150121066–5717–02]
                                                  U.S.C. 3501 et seq., nor does it require                Agricultural commodities, Pesticides                   RIN 0648–XF472
                                                  any special considerations under                        and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
                                                  Executive Order 12898, entitled                         requirements.                                          Atlantic Highly Migratory Species;
                                                  ‘‘Federal Actions to Address                                                                                   Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries
                                                  Environmental Justice in Minority                         Dated: May 10, 2017.
                                                  Populations and Low-Income                              Michael Goodis,                                        AGENCY:  National Marine Fisheries
                                                  Populations’’ (59 FR 7629, February 16,                 Director, Registration Division, Office of             Service, National Oceanic and
                                                  1994).                                                  Pesticide Programs.                                    Atmospheric Administration,
                                                     Since tolerances and exemptions that                   Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is                       Commerce.
                                                  are established in accordance with                      amended as follows:                                    ACTION: Temporary rule; closure of
                                                  FFDCA sections 408(e) and 408(l)(6),                                                                           Angling category Gulf of Mexico trophy
                                                  such as the tolerances in this final rule,              PART 180—[AMENDED]                                     fishery.
                                                  do not require the issuance of a
                                                  proposed rule, the requirements of the                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 180               SUMMARY:   NMFS closes the Gulf of
                                                  Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5                     continues to read as follows:                          Mexico Angling category fishery for
                                                  U.S.C. 601 et seq.) do not apply.                           Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.         large medium and giant (‘‘trophy’’ (i.e.,
                                                     This action directly regulates growers,              ■ 2. In § 180.417, revise paragraph (b) to             measuring 73 inches curved fork length
                                                  food processors, food handlers, and food                read as follows:                                       or greater)) Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT).
                                                  retailers, not States or tribes, nor does                                                                      This action is being taken to prevent any
                                                  this action alter the relationships or                  § 180.417 Triclopyr; tolerances for                    further overharvest of the Angling
                                                  distribution of power and                               residues.                                              category Gulf of Mexico trophy BFT
                                                  responsibilities established by Congress                *      *     *    *    *                               subquota.
                                                  in the preemption provisions of FFDCA                      (b) Section 18 emergency exemptions.                DATES:  Effective 11:30 p.m., local time,
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                                                  section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency                  Time-limited tolerances specified in the               June 7, 2017, through December 31,
                                                  has determined that this action will not                following table are established for                    2017.
                                                  have a substantial direct effect on States              residues of the triclopyr (2-[(3,5,6-
                                                  or tribal governments, on the                           trichloro-2-pyridinyl)oxy]acetic acid),                FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                  relationship between the national                       including its metabolites and degradates               Sarah McLaughlin or Brad McHale,
                                                  government and the States or tribal                     in or on the specified agricultural                    978–281–9260.
                                                  governments, or on the distribution of                  commodities, resulting from use of the                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                  power and responsibilities among the                    pesticide pursuant to FIFRA section 18                 Regulations implemented under the


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Document Created: 2018-11-14 10:06:54
Document Modified: 2018-11-14 10:06:54
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis regulation is effective June 8, 2017. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before August 7, 2017, and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ContactMichael L. Goodis, Registration Division (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-
FR Citation82 FR 26599 
CFR AssociatedEnvironmental Protection; Administrative Practice and Procedure; Agricultural Commodities; Pesticides and Pests and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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