83_FR_54468 83 FR 54259 - Pyroxasulfone; Pesticide Tolerances

83 FR 54259 - Pyroxasulfone; Pesticide Tolerances

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 209 (October 29, 2018)

Page Range54259-54264
FR Document2018-23002

This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of pyroxasulfone in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. In addition, the established pyroxasulfone tolerance on cotton, undelinted seed is removed. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 209 (Monday, October 29, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 209 (Monday, October 29, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 54259-54264]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-23002]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0334; FRLc-9983-29]


Pyroxasulfone; Pesticide Tolerances

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of 
pyroxasulfone in or on multiple commodities which are identified and 
discussed later in this document. In addition, the established 
pyroxasulfone tolerance on cotton, undelinted seed is removed. 
Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these 
tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).

DATES: This regulation is effective October 29, 2018. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before December 28, 2018, 
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-2017-0334, 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:
     Crop production (NAICS code 111).
     Animal production (NAICS code 112).
     Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311).
     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 EPA's 
tolerance regulations at 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.

[[Page 54260]]

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

    Under FFDCA section 408(g), 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-2017-0334 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 
December 28, 2018. 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-2017-0334, 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. Summary of Petitioned-For Tolerance

    In the Federal Register of October 23, 2017 (82 FR 49020) (FRL-
9967-37), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21 
U.S.C. 346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a pesticide petitions (PP 
7E8570 & 7E8585) by IR-4 Headquarters, Rutgers, The State University of 
New Jersey, 500 College Road East, Suite 201 W, Princeton, NJ 08540. 
The petitions requested that 40 CFR 180.659 be amended as follows:
    a. Amend 180.659(a)(1), by establishing a tolerance for residues of 
the herbicide pyroxasulfone, including its metabolites and degradates, 
determined by measuring only the sum of pyroxasulfone, 3-[[[5-
(difluoromethoxy)-1-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazol-4-
yl]methyl]sulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-dimethylisoxazole, and its 
metabolite, 5-(difluoromethoxy)-1-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1 H-
pyrazol-4-carboxylic acid (M-3), calculated as the stoichiometric 
equivalent of pyroxasulfone, in or on the commodity: Cottonseed 
subgroup 20C at 0.04 parts per million (ppm). In addition, the 
petitioner requested removal of the established tolerance on Cotton, 
undelinted seed at 0.04 ppm (PP 7E8585).
    b. Amend 180.659(a)(5) by establishing a tolerance for residues of 
the herbicide pyroxasulfone, including its metabolites and degradates, 
determined by measuring only the sum of pyroxasulfone, (3-[(5-
difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-
ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-dimethyl-1,2-oxazole), and its 
metabolites, M-1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-
pyrazol-4-yl) methanesulfonic acid), M-3 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-
trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic acid), M-25 (5-difluoromethoxy-
3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M-28 (3-[1-
carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-
oxopropanoic acid) calculated as the stoichiometric equivalent of 
pyroxasulfone, in or on the commodities: Peppermint, oil at 0.48 ppm; 
peppermint, tops at 0.15 ppm; spearmint, oil at 0.48 ppm; spearmint, 
tops at 0.15 ppm; soybean, vegetable, succulent at 0.2 ppm (PP 7E8570); 
and Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B at 0.3 ppm (PP 7E8585).
    c. Amend 180.659(c) Tolerances with regional registrations, by 
establishing a tolerance for residues of the herbicide pyroxasulfone, 
including its metabolites and degradates, determined by measuring only 
the sum of pyroxasulfone, (3-[(5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-
(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-dimethyl-
1,2-oxazole), and its metabolites, M-1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-
trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) methanesulfonic acid), M-3 (5-
difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic 
acid), M-25 (5-difluoromethoxy-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-
yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M-28 (3-[1-carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-
dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-oxopropanoic acid) calculated as 
the stoichiometric equivalent of pyroxasulfone, in or on the 
commodities: Grass, forage at 0.5 ppm and grass, hay at 1.0 ppm (PP 
7E8570).
    These documents referenced a summary of each petition prepared by 
K-1 Chemical, USA Inc., the registrant, that are available in the 
docket, http://www.regulations.gov.
    One comment was received on the notice of filings. EPA's response 
to the comment is discussed in Unit IV.C.
    Consistent with the authority in FFDCA 408(d)(4)(A)(i), EPA is 
issuing tolerances that vary from what the petitioner sought. The 
reasons for these changes are explained in Unit IV.D.

III. 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 FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), and 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 for pyroxasulfone including 
exposure resulting from the tolerances established by this action. 
EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated with pyroxasulfone 
follows.

A. Toxicological Profile

    EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered their 
validity, completeness, and reliability as

[[Page 54261]]

well as the relationship of the results of the studies to human risk. 
EPA has also considered available information concerning the 
variability of the sensitivities of major identifiable subgroups of 
consumers, including infants and children.
    The toxicology database for pyroxasulfone is adequate for 
evaluating and characterizing toxicity and selecting endpoints for 
purposes of this risk assessment. Pyroxasulfone acute toxicity to 
mammals is low by all routes of exposure. Subchronic and chronic oral 
studies in mice, rats and dogs produced a variety of effects including 
cardiac toxicity (increased cardiomyopathy), liver toxicity 
(centrilobular hepatocellular hypertrophy, histopathological and/or 
clinical pathological indicators), kidney toxicity (nephropathy), 
neurotoxicity (impaired hind limb function, ataxia, tremors, sciatic 
nerve lesions, axonal/myelin degeneration in the sciatic nerve and 
spinal cord sections), skeletal muscle myopathy, urinary bladder 
mucosal hyperplasia, and urinary bladder transitional cell papillomas. 
Dogs appear to be the most sensitive species in regard to neurotoxic 
effects of pyroxasulfone via the oral route. Cardiac toxicity (myofiber 
degeneration and local inflammation) were also seen in a rat dermal 
toxicity study. Pyroxasulfone did not elicit immunotoxic effects in 
rats or mice. Neurotoxicity was seen in a developmental neurotoxicity 
study in offspring rats (decreased brain weight, decreased thickness of 
the hippocampus, corpus callosum and cerebellum). There is evidence of 
fetal and offspring quantitative susceptibility in the developmental 
neurotoxicity study in rats as effects occurred in the absence of 
maternal toxicity. There is no concern for reproductive toxicity.
    Pyroxasulfone is classified as ``Not Likely to be Carcinogenic to 
Humans'' at doses that do not cause crystals with subsequent calculi 
formation resulting in cellular damage of the urinary tract. The Agency 
has determined that the quantification of risk using a non-linear 
approach (i.e., reference dose (RfD)) will adequately account for all 
chronic toxicity, including carcinogenicity, that could result from 
exposure to pyroxasulfone.
    Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the 
adverse effects caused by pyroxasulfone as well as the no-observed-
adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-adverse-effect-
level (LOAEL) from the toxicity studies can be found at http://www.regulations.gov in document titled, ``SUBJECT: Pyroxasulfone Human 
Health Risk Assessment for the Section 3 New Uses of Pyroxasulfone on 
Mint, Edamame (vegetable soybean), Grass (seed crop) for the Pacific 
Northwest only, Leaf Petiole Vegetable Subgroup 22B and Expansion of 
Cottonseed Subgroup 20C,'' at pages 34-79 in docket ID number EPA-HQ-
OPP-2017-0334.

B. 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://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/assessing-human-health-risk-pesticides.
    A summary of the toxicological endpoints for pyroxasulfone used for 
human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III of the final rule 
published in the Federal Register of May 17, 2018 (83 FR 22854) (FRL-
9977-25).

C. Exposure Assessment

    1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary 
exposure to pyroxasulfone, EPA considered exposure under the 
petitioned-for tolerances as well as all existing pyroxasulfone 
tolerances in 40 CFR 180.659. EPA assessed dietary exposures from 
pyroxasulfone in food as follows:
    i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute dietary exposure and risk 
assessments are performed for a food-use pesticide, if a toxicological 
study has indicated the possibility of an effect of concern occurring 
as a result of a 1-day or single exposure.
    Such effects were identified for pyroxasulfone. In estimating acute 
dietary exposure, EPA used 2003-2008 food consumption data from the 
United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Health and 
Nutrition Survey/What We Eat in America (NHANES/WWEIA). As to residue 
levels in food, EPA assumed 100 percent crop treated (PCT) and 
tolerance-level residues adjusted for metabolites that are not in the 
tolerance expression, except for soybean and subgroup 22B commodities, 
for which EPA used anticipated residues from field trial data.
    ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure 
assessment EPA used the 2003-2008 food consumption data from the USDA's 
NHANES/WWEIA. As to residue levels in food, EPA assumed 100 PCT and 
tolerance level residues that were adjusted for metabolites not in the 
tolerance expression, except for soybean and subgroup 22B commodities, 
for which EPA used anticipated residues from field trial data.
    iii. Cancer. Based on the data summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has 
concluded that a nonlinear RfD approach is appropriate for assessing 
cancer risk to pyroxasulfone. Cancer risk was assessed using the same 
exposure estimates as discussed in Unit III.C.1.ii., chronic exposure.
    iv. Anticipated residue and percent crop treated (PCT) information. 
EPA did not use PCT information in the dietary assessment for 
pyroxasulfone; 100% CT was assumed for all food commodities. Tolerance-
level residues were used for all commodities except soybean and 
subgroup 22B commodities, for which EPA used anticipated residues from 
field trial data.
    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.

[[Page 54262]]

    2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening 
level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk 
assessment for pyroxasulfone in drinking water. These simulation models 
take into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/transport 
characteristics of pyroxasulfone. Further information regarding EPA 
drinking water models used in pesticide exposure assessment can be 
found at http://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/about-water-exposure-models-used-pesticide.
    Based on the Pesticide Root Zone Model/Exposure Analysis Modeling 
System (PRZM/EXAMS) and Pesticide Root Zone Model Ground Water (PRZM 
GW), the estimated drinking water concentrations (EDWCs) of 
pyroxasulfone for acute exposures are estimated to be 16.7 parts per 
billion (ppb) for surface water and 210 ppb for ground water. EDWCs of 
pyroxasulfone for chronic exposures for non-cancer assessments are 
estimated to be 4.5 ppb for surface water and 174 ppb for ground 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 210 ppb was used to assess 
the contribution to drinking water. For chronic dietary risk 
assessment, the water concentration value of 174 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).
    Pyroxasulfone is not registered for any specific use patterns that 
would result in residential exposure.
    Further information regarding EPA standard assumptions and generic 
inputs for residential exposures may be found at http://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/standard-operating-procedures-residential-pesticide.
    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.''
    EPA has not found pyroxasulfone to share a common mechanism of 
toxicity with any other substances, and pyroxasulfone does not appear 
to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For the 
purposes of this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that 
pyroxasulfone does not have a common mechanism of toxicity with other 
substances. 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 website at EPA's 
website at http://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/cumulative-assessment-risk-pesticides.

D. 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 safety factor when 
reliable data available to EPA support the choice of a different 
factor.
    2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. Pyroxasulfone did not 
exhibit developmental toxicity in the rat guideline study at the limit 
dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day and it exhibited slight developmental toxicity 
in rabbits (reduced fetal weight and resorptions) at the limit dose of 
1,000 mg/kg/day. However, developmental effects (decreased brain weight 
and morphometric changes) were noted in offspring at 300 mg/kg/day in 
the rat developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) study compared to no maternal 
toxicity at 900 mg/kg/day. In a reproductive toxicity in rats, reduced 
pup weight and body weight gains during lactation occurred at similar 
or higher doses causing pronounced maternal toxicity (reduced body 
weight, body weight gain and food consumption and increased kidney 
weight, cardiomyopathy and urinary bladder mucosal hyperplasia with 
inflammation).
    3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show the 
safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the 
FQPA SF were reduced to 1x. That decision is based on the following 
findings:
    i. The toxicity database for pyroxasulfone is complete.
    ii. The neurotoxicity database, including acute, subchronic and 
chronic studies, shows adverse effects from pyroxasulfone exposure in 
mice, rats and dogs, with the latter species showing greatest 
sensitivity. Although the DNT study indicated offspring are more 
sensitive to neurotoxic effects of pyroxasulfone, the dose-response is 
well characterized for neurotoxicity and a NOAEL is identified; 
therefore, there is no residual uncertainty with regard to neurotoxic 
effects for which a 10X must be retained.
    iii. As noted in Unit III.D.2., the available database shows 
evidence of increased susceptibility of fetuses and offspring in a DNT 
study in rats and in a developmental study in rabbits following in 
utero or post-natal exposure to pyroxasulfone. The Agency concludes, 
however, that there is no residual uncertainty concerning these 
effects. The available studies show clear NOAELs and LOAELs for these 
effects, which are occurring only at doses much higher than the 
endpoints on which the Agency is regulating.
    iv. There are no residual uncertainties in the exposure databases. 
The dietary food exposure assessments were performed based on 100 PCT 
and tolerance-level residues or residues based on field trials. EPA 
made conservative (protective) assumptions in the ground and surface 
water modeling used to assess exposure to pyroxasulfone in drinking 
water. These assessments will not underestimate the exposure and risks 
posed by pyroxasulfone.

E. 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 analysis, the risk estimate for acute dietary 
exposure from food and water to pyroxasulfone is at 3.7% of the aPAD 
for all infants less than 1 year old, the population group receiving 
the greatest exposure. The

[[Page 54263]]

acute dietary risk is not of concern (<100% aPAD).
    2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this 
unit for chronic exposure analysis, EPA has concluded that risk 
estimates for chronic exposure to pyroxasulfone from food and water are 
not of concern (<100% cPAD) with a risk estimate at 50% of the cPAD for 
all infants less than 1 year old, the population group receiving the 
greatest exposure. There are no residential uses for pyroxasulfone.
    3. Short-and intermediate term risk. Short- and intermediate-term 
adverse effects were identified; however, pyroxasulfone is not 
registered for any use patterns that would result in short- or 
intermediate-term residential exposure. Short- and intermediate-term 
risk is assessed based on short- and intermediate-term residential 
exposure plus chronic dietary exposure. Because there is no short- or 
intermediate-term residential exposure and chronic dietary exposure has 
already been assessed under the appropriately protective cPAD (which is 
at least as protective as the POD used to assess short-term risk), no 
further assessment of short- or intermediate-term risk is necessary, 
and EPA relies on the chronic dietary risk assessment for evaluating 
short- and intermediate-term risk for pyroxasulfone.
    4. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. As explained in Unit 
III.A., the Agency has determined that the quantification of risk using 
a non-linear (i.e., RfD) approach will adequately account for all 
chronic toxicity, including carcinogenicity, that could result from 
exposure to pyroxasulfone. Therefore, based on the results of the 
chronic risk assessment discussed in Unit III.E.2., pyroxasulfone is 
not expected to pose a cancer risk to humans.
    5. 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 pyroxasulfone residues.

IV. Other Considerations

A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    Adequate enforcement methodology (high performance liquid 
chromatography/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS)) is 
available to enforce the tolerance expression.
    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 EPA explain 
the reasons for departing from the Codex level.
    The Codex has not established a MRL for residues of pyroxasulfone 
in or on any of the petitioned-for commodities associated with this 
regulatory action.

C. Response to Comments

    One anonymous public comment was received that expressed concerns 
about the cost of EPA regulations to tax payers and corporations. This 
comment did not raise any issue relevant to the Agency's safety 
determination for this tolerance action. Section 408 of the Federal 
Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) allows EPA to set tolerances for 
residues of pesticide chemicals when it determines that the tolerance 
meets the safety standard imposed by that statute. EPA has made that 
determination for the pyroxasulfone tolerances established by this 
final rule.

D. Revisions to Petitioned-For Tolerances

    EPA calculated tolerance levels using the Organization for Economic 
Cooperation and Development (OECD) tolerance calculation procedures, 
available field trial residue data, and metabolite concentrations 
covered to parent equivalents. The Agency is also harmonizing with 
relevant Canadian MRLs. In addition, the Agency is using commodity 
terminology consistent with the terms generally used for tolerances.
    As a result, the Agency is establishing tolerances that differ from 
the petitioned-for tolerances as follows: (1) The proposed 
pyroxasulfone tolerances on both Peppermint, oil and Spearmint, oil at 
0.48 ppm are being established at 0.70 ppm; (2) the proposed 
pyroxasulfone tolerances on both Peppermint, fresh leaves and 
Spearmint, fresh leaves at 0.15 ppm are being each established at 0.20 
ppm; and (3) the proposed tolerance on Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 
22B at 0.3 ppm is being established at 0.80 ppm.
    In addition, although the petitioner requested a tolerance on 
Soybean, vegetable, succulent at 0.2 ppm, this term is broad and covers 
two forms of vegetable soybean--Soybean, vegetable, succulent shelled, 
and Vegetable, soybean, edible podded; therefore, to conform to the 
Agency's commodity terminology for soybeans, the Agency is establishing 
the tolerance requested as separate tolerances at 0.40 ppm for both 
forms of succulent soybean vegetable.

V. Conclusion

    Therefore, tolerances are established for residues of 
pyroxasulfone, including its metabolites and degradates, in or on 
Cottonseed subgroup 20C at 0.04 ppm; Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 
22B at 0.80 ppm; Peppermint, fresh leaves at 0.20 ppm; Peppermint, oil 
at 0.70 ppm; Soybean, vegetable, succulent shelled at 0.40 ppm; 
Spearmint, fresh leaves at 0.20 ppm; Spearmint, oil at 0.70 ppm; and 
Vegetable, soybean, edible podded at 0.40 ppm. In addition, tolerances 
with regional registrations are established in or on Grass, forage at 
0.50 ppm and Grass, hay 1.0 ppm. Lastly, the Agency is removing the 
existing pyroxasulfone tolerance on Cotton, undelinted seed that is 
superseded by this final rule.

VI. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    This action establishes tolerances under FFDCA section 408(d) in 
response to a petition submitted to the Agency. 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); or Executive Order 13771, 
entitled ``Reducing Regulations and Controlling Regulatory Costs'' (82 
FR 9339, February 3, 2017). This action does not contain any 
information collections subject to OMB approval

[[Page 54264]]

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 on the basis 
of a petition under FFDCA section 408(d), such as the tolerance 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).

VII. Congressional Review Act

    Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), 
EPA will submit 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: October 9, 2018.
Michael L. 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.  180.659:
0
a. In the table in paragraph (a)(1):
0
i. Remove the entry ``Cotton, undelinted seed'';
0
ii. Add alphabetically the commodity, ''Cottonseed subgroup 20C'';
0
b. In the table in paragraph (a)(5), add alphabetically the 
commodities, ``Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B''; ``Peppermint, 
fresh leaves''; ``Peppermint, oil''; ``Soybean, vegetable, succulent 
shelled''; ``Spearmint fresh leaves''; ``Spearmint, oil''; and 
``Vegetable, soybean, edible podded''; and
0
c. Revise paragraph (c).
    The additions and revisions read as follows:


Sec.  180.659   Pyroxasulfone; tolerances for residues.

    (a) * * *
    (1) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Parts per
                          Commodity                             million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                * * * * *
Cottonseed, subgroup 20C.....................................       0.04
 
                                * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (5) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Parts per
                          Commodity                             million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                * * * * *
Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B..........................       0.80
 
                                * * * * *
Peppermint, fresh leaves.....................................       0.20
Peppermint, oil..............................................       0.70
 
                                * * * * *
Soybean, vegetable, succulent shelled........................       0.40
Spearmint, fresh leaves......................................       0.20
Spearmint, oil...............................................       0.70
 
                                * * * * *
Vegetable, soybean, edible podded............................       0.40
 
                                * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (c) Tolerance with regional registrations. Tolerances are 
established for residues of the herbicide pyroxasulfone, including its 
metabolites and degradates, in or on the commodities in the table 
below. Compliance with the tolerance levels specified below is to be 
determined by measuring only the sum of pyroxasulfone (3-[(5-
difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-
ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-dimethyl-1,2-oxazole), and its 
metabolites, M-1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-
pyrazol-4-yl)methanesulfonic acid), M-3 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-
trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic acid), M-25 (5-difluoromethoxy-
3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M-28 (3-[1-
carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-
oxopropanoic acid) calculated as the stoichiometric equivalent of 
pyroxasulfone, in or on the commodity.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Parts per
                          Commodity                             million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grass, forage................................................       0.50
Grass, hay...................................................        1.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2018-23002 Filed 10-26-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P



                                                                   Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                                                                              54259

                                           ■ 5. Amend Appendix C to Part 4 by                                        Leukemia and adding in alphabetical                                         Appendix C to Part 4—Alphabetical
                                           revising the entries for Agranulocytosis,                                 order, a new entry for Hematologic to                                       Index of Disabilities
                                           Anemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and                                           read as follows:.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Diagnostic
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 code No.


                                                   *                       *                                 *                                 *                                 *                                *                                *
                                           Agranulocytosis, acquired ....................................................................................................................................................................                7702

                                                   *                       *                                 *                                 *                                 *                                *                                *
                                           Anemia:
                                              Acquired hemolytic anemia ..........................................................................................................................................................                       7723
                                              Folic acid deficiency .....................................................................................................................................................................                7721
                                              Iron deficiency anemia .................................................................................................................................................................                   7720
                                              Pernicious anemia and Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia ...............................................................................................................                                        7722

                                                    *                      *                                 *                                 *                                 *                                *                                *
                                           Hematologic:
                                              Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis ................................................................................................................                                       7718
                                              Immune thrombocytopenia ...........................................................................................................................................................                        7705
                                              Multiple myeloma ..........................................................................................................................................................................                7712
                                              Myelodysplastic syndromes ..........................................................................................................................................................                       7725
                                              Solitary plasmacytoma .................................................................................................................................................................                    7724

                                                    *                      *                                 *                                 *                                 *                                *                                *
                                           Hodgkin’s lymphoma ...........................................................................................................................................................................                7709

                                                   *                            *                                 *                                 *                                 *                                *                           *
                                           Leukemia:
                                               Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) (chronic myeloid leukemia or chronic granulocytic leukemia) .......................................                                                                    7719
                                               Leukemia ......................................................................................................................................................................................           7703

                                                         *                               *                               *                              *                               *                               *                          *



                                           [FR Doc. 2018–23517 Filed 10–26–18; 8:45 am]                              178 (see also Unit I.C. of the                                             I. General Information
                                           BILLING CODE 8320–01–P                                                    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
                                                                                                                                                                                                A. Does this action apply to me?
                                                                                                                     ADDRESSES:    The docket for this action,
                                                                                                                     identified by docket identification (ID)                                      You may be potentially affected by
                                                                                                                     number EPA–HQ–OPP–2017–0334, is                                            this action if you are an agricultural
                                           ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                           AGENCY                                                                    available at http://www.regulations.gov                                    producer, food manufacturer, or
                                                                                                                     or at the Office of Pesticide Programs                                     pesticide manufacturer. The following
                                           40 CFR Part 180                                                           Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)                                      list of North American Industrial
                                                                                                                     in the Environmental Protection Agency                                     Classification System (NAICS) codes is
                                           [EPA–HQ–OPP–2017–0334; FRLc–9983–29]                                      Docket Center (EPA/DC), West William                                       not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
                                                                                                                     Jefferson Clinton Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301                                    provides a guide to help readers
                                           Pyroxasulfone; Pesticide Tolerances                                                                                                                  determine whether this document
                                                                                                                     Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
                                           AGENCY:  Environmental Protection                                         20460–0001. The Public Reading Room                                        applies to them. Potentially affected
                                           Agency (EPA).                                                             is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,                                       entities may include:
                                           ACTION: Final rule.                                                       Monday through Friday, excluding legal                                        • Crop production (NAICS code 111).
                                                                                                                     holidays. The telephone number for the                                        • Animal production (NAICS code
                                           SUMMARY:   This regulation establishes                                    Public Reading Room is (202) 566–1744,                                     112).
                                           tolerances for residues of pyroxasulfone                                  and the telephone number for the OPP
                                           in or on multiple commodities which                                                                                                                     • Food manufacturing (NAICS code
                                                                                                                     Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review
                                           are identified and discussed later in this                                                                                                           311).
                                                                                                                     the visitor instructions and additional
                                           document. In addition, the established                                    information about the docket available                                        • Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
                                           pyroxasulfone tolerance on cotton,                                        at http://www.epa.gov/dockets.                                             code 32532).
                                           undelinted seed is removed.
                                           Interregional Research Project Number 4                                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                                           B. How can I get electronic access to
                                           (IR–4) requested these tolerances under                                   Michael L. Goodis, Registration Division                                   other related information?
                                           the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic                                      (7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
                                                                                                                                                                                                   You may access a frequently updated
                                           Act (FFDCA).                                                              Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES




                                                                                                                                                                                                electronic version of EPA’s tolerance
                                           DATES: This regulation is effective                                       Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
                                                                                                                                                                                                regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through
                                           October 29, 2018. Objections and                                          20460–0001; main telephone number:
                                                                                                                                                                                                the Government Printing Office’s e-CFR
                                           requests for hearings must be received                                    (703) 305–7090; email address:
                                                                                                                                                                                                site at http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
                                           on or before December 28, 2018, and                                       RDFRNotices@epa.gov.
                                                                                                                                                                                                idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/
                                           must be filed in accordance with the
                                                                                                                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                                                 40tab_02.tpl.
                                           instructions provided in 40 CFR part


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                                           54260            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                           C. How can I file an objection or hearing               Princeton, NJ 08540. The petitions                    acid), M-25 (5-difluoromethoxy-3-
                                           request?                                                requested that 40 CFR 180.659 be                      trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-
                                             Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21                        amended as follows:                                   yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M-28 (3-
                                                                                                      a. Amend 180.659(a)(1), by                         [1-carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-
                                           U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
                                                                                                   establishing a tolerance for residues of              dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-
                                           objection to any aspect of this regulation
                                                                                                   the herbicide pyroxasulfone, including                oxopropanoic acid) calculated as the
                                           and may also request a hearing on those
                                                                                                   its metabolites and degradates,                       stoichiometric equivalent of
                                           objections. You must file your objection
                                                                                                   determined by measuring only the sum                  pyroxasulfone, in or on the
                                           or request a hearing on this regulation
                                                                                                   of pyroxasulfone, 3-[[[5-                             commodities: Grass, forage at 0.5 ppm
                                           in accordance with the instructions
                                                                                                   (difluoromethoxy)-1-methyl-3-                         and grass, hay at 1.0 ppm (PP 7E8570).
                                           provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure                  (trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazol-4-                         These documents referenced a
                                           proper receipt by EPA, you must                         yl]methyl]sulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-                  summary of each petition prepared by
                                           identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–                       dimethylisoxazole, and its metabolite, 5-             K–1 Chemical, USA Inc., the registrant,
                                           OPP–2017–0334 in the subject line on                    (difluoromethoxy)-1-methyl-3-                         that are available in the docket, http://
                                           the first page of your submission. All                  (trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazol-4-                      www.regulations.gov.
                                           objections and requests for a hearing                   carboxylic acid (M-3), calculated as the                 One comment was received on the
                                           must be in writing, and must be                         stoichiometric equivalent of                          notice of filings. EPA’s response to the
                                           received by the Hearing Clerk on or                     pyroxasulfone, in or on the commodity:                comment is discussed in Unit IV.C.
                                           before December 28, 2018. Addresses for                 Cottonseed subgroup 20C at 0.04 parts                    Consistent with the authority in
                                           mail and hand delivery of objections                    per million (ppm). In addition, the                   FFDCA 408(d)(4)(A)(i), EPA is issuing
                                           and hearing requests are provided in 40                 petitioner requested removal of the                   tolerances that vary from what the
                                           CFR 178.25(b).                                          established tolerance on Cotton,                      petitioner sought. The reasons for these
                                             In addition to filing an objection or                 undelinted seed at 0.04 ppm (PP                       changes are explained in Unit IV.D.
                                           hearing request with the Hearing Clerk                  7E8585).
                                           as described in 40 CFR part 178, please                                                                       III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
                                                                                                      b. Amend 180.659(a)(5) by
                                           submit a copy of the filing (excluding                                                                        Determination of Safety
                                                                                                   establishing a tolerance for residues of
                                           any Confidential Business Information                   the herbicide pyroxasulfone, including                   Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
                                           (CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket.              its metabolites and degradates,                       allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the
                                           Information not marked confidential                     determined by measuring only the sum                  legal limit for a pesticide chemical
                                           pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be                        of pyroxasulfone, (3-[(5-                             residue in or on a food) only if EPA
                                           disclosed publicly by EPA without prior                 difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-                           determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
                                           notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your                 (trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-                           Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
                                           objection or hearing request, identified                ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-                    defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
                                           by docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–                         dimethyl-1,2-oxazole), and its                        reasonable certainty that no harm will
                                           2017–0334, by one of the following                      metabolites, M-1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-                result from aggregate exposure to the
                                           methods:                                                methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-                pesticide chemical residue, including
                                             • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://                 yl) methanesulfonic acid), M-3 (5-                    all anticipated dietary exposures and all
                                           www.regulations.gov. Follow the online                  difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-                           other exposures for which there is
                                           instructions for submitting comments.                   trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic               reliable information.’’ This includes
                                           Do not submit electronically any                        acid), M-25 (5-difluoromethoxy-3-                     exposure through drinking water and in
                                           information you consider to be CBI or                   trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-                         residential settings but does not include
                                           other information whose disclosure is                   yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M-28 (3-                 occupational exposure. Section
                                           restricted by statute.                                  [1-carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-                       408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
                                             • Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental                     dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-               give special consideration to exposure
                                           Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/                   oxopropanoic acid) calculated as the                  of infants and children to the pesticide
                                           DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave.                   stoichiometric equivalent of                          chemical residue in establishing a
                                           NW, Washington, DC 20460–0001.                          pyroxasulfone, in or on the                           tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
                                             • Hand Delivery: To make special                      commodities: Peppermint, oil at 0.48                  reasonable certainty that no harm will
                                           arrangements for hand delivery or                       ppm; peppermint, tops at 0.15 ppm;                    result to infants and children from
                                           delivery of boxed information, please                   spearmint, oil at 0.48 ppm; spearmint,                aggregate exposure to the pesticide
                                           follow the instructions at http://                      tops at 0.15 ppm; soybean, vegetable,                 chemical residue. . . .’’
                                           www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.                      succulent at 0.2 ppm (PP 7E8570); and                    Consistent with FFDCA section
                                             Additional instructions on                            Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B at                408(b)(2)(D), and the factors specified in
                                           commenting or visiting the docket,                      0.3 ppm (PP 7E8585).                                  FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has
                                           along with more information about                          c. Amend 180.659(c) Tolerances with                reviewed the available scientific data
                                           dockets generally, is available at http://              regional registrations, by establishing a             and other relevant information in
                                           www.epa.gov/dockets.                                    tolerance for residues of the herbicide               support of this action. EPA has
                                                                                                   pyroxasulfone, including its metabolites              sufficient data to assess the hazards of
                                           II. Summary of Petitioned-For                           and degradates, determined by
                                           Tolerance                                                                                                     and to make a determination on
                                                                                                   measuring only the sum of                             aggregate exposure for pyroxasulfone
                                             In the Federal Register of October 23,                pyroxasulfone, (3-[(5-difluoromethoxy-                including exposure resulting from the
                                           2017 (82 FR 49020) (FRL–9967–37),                       1-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-                tolerances established by this action.
                                           EPA issued a document pursuant to                       ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-                    EPA’s assessment of exposures and risks
amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES




                                           FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21 U.S.C.                      dimethyl-1,2-oxazole), and its                        associated with pyroxasulfone follows.
                                           346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a                  metabolites, M-1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-
                                           pesticide petitions (PP 7E8570 &                        methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-                A. Toxicological Profile
                                           7E8585) by IR–4 Headquarters, Rutgers,                  yl) methanesulfonic acid), M-3 (5-                      EPA has evaluated the available
                                           The State University of New Jersey, 500                 difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-                           toxicity data and considered their
                                           College Road East, Suite 201 W,                         trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic               validity, completeness, and reliability as


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                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                         54261

                                           well as the relationship of the results of              Health Risk Assessment for the Section                possibility of an effect of concern
                                           the studies to human risk. EPA has also                 3 New Uses of Pyroxasulfone on Mint,                  occurring as a result of a 1-day or single
                                           considered available information                        Edamame (vegetable soybean), Grass                    exposure.
                                           concerning the variability of the                       (seed crop) for the Pacific Northwest                    Such effects were identified for
                                           sensitivities of major identifiable                     only, Leaf Petiole Vegetable Subgroup                 pyroxasulfone. In estimating acute
                                           subgroups of consumers, including                       22B and Expansion of Cottonseed                       dietary exposure, EPA used 2003–2008
                                           infants and children.                                   Subgroup 20C,’’ at pages 34–79 in                     food consumption data from the United
                                              The toxicology database for                          docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–2017–                     States Department of Agriculture’s
                                           pyroxasulfone is adequate for evaluating                0334.                                                 (USDA) National Health and Nutrition
                                           and characterizing toxicity and selecting                                                                     Survey/What We Eat in America
                                           endpoints for purposes of this risk                     B. Toxicological Points of Departure/                 (NHANES/WWEIA). As to residue levels
                                           assessment. Pyroxasulfone acute                         Levels of Concern                                     in food, EPA assumed 100 percent crop
                                           toxicity to mammals is low by all routes                   Once a pesticide’s toxicological                   treated (PCT) and tolerance-level
                                           of exposure. Subchronic and chronic                     profile is determined, EPA identifies                 residues adjusted for metabolites that
                                           oral studies in mice, rats and dogs                     toxicological points of departure (POD)               are not in the tolerance expression,
                                           produced a variety of effects including                 and levels of concern to use in                       except for soybean and subgroup 22B
                                           cardiac toxicity (increased                             evaluating the risk posed by human                    commodities, for which EPA used
                                           cardiomyopathy), liver toxicity                         exposure to the pesticide. For hazards                anticipated residues from field trial
                                           (centrilobular hepatocellular                           that have a threshold below which there               data.
                                           hypertrophy, histopathological and/or                   is no appreciable risk, the toxicological                ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting
                                           clinical pathological indicators), kidney               POD is used as the basis for derivation               the chronic dietary exposure assessment
                                           toxicity (nephropathy), neurotoxicity                   of reference values for risk assessment.              EPA used the 2003–2008 food
                                           (impaired hind limb function, ataxia,                   PODs are developed based on a careful                 consumption data from the USDA’s
                                           tremors, sciatic nerve lesions, axonal/                 analysis of the doses in each                         NHANES/WWEIA. As to residue levels
                                           myelin degeneration in the sciatic nerve                toxicological study to determine the                  in food, EPA assumed 100 PCT and
                                           and spinal cord sections), skeletal                     dose at which no adverse effects are                  tolerance level residues that were
                                           muscle myopathy, urinary bladder                        observed (the NOAEL) and the lowest                   adjusted for metabolites not in the
                                           mucosal hyperplasia, and urinary                        dose at which adverse effects of concern              tolerance expression, except for soybean
                                           bladder transitional cell papillomas.                   are identified (the LOAEL). Uncertainty/              and subgroup 22B commodities, for
                                           Dogs appear to be the most sensitive                    safety factors are used in conjunction                which EPA used anticipated residues
                                           species in regard to neurotoxic effects of              with the POD to calculate a safe                      from field trial data.
                                           pyroxasulfone via the oral route.                       exposure level—generally referred to as                  iii. Cancer. Based on the data
                                           Cardiac toxicity (myofiber degeneration                 a population-adjusted dose (PAD) or a                 summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has
                                           and local inflammation) were also seen                  reference dose (RfD)—and a safe margin                concluded that a nonlinear RfD
                                           in a rat dermal toxicity study.                         of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold                  approach is appropriate for assessing
                                           Pyroxasulfone did not elicit                            risks, the Agency assumes that any                    cancer risk to pyroxasulfone. Cancer
                                           immunotoxic effects in rats or mice.                    amount of exposure will lead to some                  risk was assessed using the same
                                           Neurotoxicity was seen in a                             degree of risk. Thus, the Agency                      exposure estimates as discussed in Unit
                                           developmental neurotoxicity study in                    estimates risk in terms of the probability            III.C.1.ii., chronic exposure.
                                           offspring rats (decreased brain weight,                 of an occurrence of the adverse effect                   iv. Anticipated residue and percent
                                           decreased thickness of the                              expected in a lifetime. For more                      crop treated (PCT) information. EPA did
                                           hippocampus, corpus callosum and                        information on the general principles                 not use PCT information in the dietary
                                           cerebellum). There is evidence of fetal                 EPA uses in risk characterization and a               assessment for pyroxasulfone; 100% CT
                                           and offspring quantitative susceptibility               complete description of the risk                      was assumed for all food commodities.
                                           in the developmental neurotoxicity                      assessment process, see http://                       Tolerance-level residues were used for
                                           study in rats as effects occurred in the                www2.epa.gov/pesticide-science-and-                   all commodities except soybean and
                                           absence of maternal toxicity. There is no               assessing-pesticide-risks/assessing-                  subgroup 22B commodities, for which
                                           concern for reproductive toxicity.                      human-health-risk-pesticides.                         EPA used anticipated residues from
                                              Pyroxasulfone is classified as ‘‘Not                    A summary of the toxicological                     field trial data.
                                           Likely to be Carcinogenic to Humans’’ at                endpoints for pyroxasulfone used for                     Section 408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA
                                           doses that do not cause crystals with                   human risk assessment is discussed in                 authorizes EPA to use available data and
                                           subsequent calculi formation resulting                  Unit III of the final rule published in the           information on the anticipated residue
                                           in cellular damage of the urinary tract.                Federal Register of May 17, 2018 (83 FR               levels of pesticide residues in food and
                                           The Agency has determined that the                      22854) (FRL–9977–25).                                 the actual levels of pesticide residues
                                           quantification of risk using a non-linear                                                                     that have been measured in food. If EPA
                                           approach (i.e., reference dose (RfD)) will              C. Exposure Assessment                                relies on such information, EPA must
                                           adequately account for all chronic                         1. Dietary exposure from food and                  require pursuant to FFDCA section
                                           toxicity, including carcinogenicity, that               feed uses. In evaluating dietary                      408(f)(1) that data be provided 5 years
                                           could result from exposure to                           exposure to pyroxasulfone, EPA                        after the tolerance is established,
                                           pyroxasulfone.                                          considered exposure under the                         modified, or left in effect, demonstrating
                                              Specific information on the studies                  petitioned-for tolerances as well as all              that the levels in food are not above the
                                           received and the nature of the adverse                  existing pyroxasulfone tolerances in 40               levels anticipated. For the present
                                           effects caused by pyroxasulfone as well                 CFR 180.659. EPA assessed dietary                     action, EPA will issue such data call-ins
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                                           as the no-observed-adverse-effect-level                 exposures from pyroxasulfone in food as               as are required by FFDCA section
                                           (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-                        follows:                                              408(b)(2)(E) and authorized under
                                           adverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from the                      i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute              FFDCA section 408(f)(1). Data will be
                                           toxicity studies can be found at http://                dietary exposure and risk assessments                 required to be submitted no later than
                                           www.regulations.gov in document titled,                 are performed for a food-use pesticide,               5 years from the date of issuance of
                                           ‘‘SUBJECT: Pyroxasulfone Human                          if a toxicological study has indicated the            these tolerances.


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                                           54262            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                              2. Dietary exposure from drinking                    with any other substances, and                           i. The toxicity database for
                                           water. The Agency used screening level                  pyroxasulfone does not appear to                      pyroxasulfone is complete.
                                           water exposure models in the dietary                    produce a toxic metabolite produced by                   ii. The neurotoxicity database,
                                           exposure analysis and risk assessment                   other substances. For the purposes of                 including acute, subchronic and chronic
                                           for pyroxasulfone in drinking water.                    this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has             studies, shows adverse effects from
                                           These simulation models take into                       assumed that pyroxasulfone does not                   pyroxasulfone exposure in mice, rats
                                           account data on the physical, chemical,                 have a common mechanism of toxicity                   and dogs, with the latter species
                                           and fate/transport characteristics of                   with other substances. For information                showing greatest sensitivity. Although
                                           pyroxasulfone. Further information                      regarding EPA’s efforts to determine                  the DNT study indicated offspring are
                                           regarding EPA drinking water models                     which chemicals have a common                         more sensitive to neurotoxic effects of
                                           used in pesticide exposure assessment                   mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate                 pyroxasulfone, the dose-response is well
                                           can be found at http://www2.epa.gov/                    the cumulative effects of such                        characterized for neurotoxicity and a
                                           pesticide-science-and-assessing-                        chemicals, see EPA’s website at EPA’s                 NOAEL is identified; therefore, there is
                                           pesticide-risks/about-water-exposure-                   website at http://www2.epa.gov/                       no residual uncertainty with regard to
                                           models-used-pesticide.                                  pesticide-science-and-assessing-                      neurotoxic effects for which a 10X must
                                              Based on the Pesticide Root Zone                     pesticide-risks/cumulative-assessment-                be retained.
                                           Model/Exposure Analysis Modeling                        risk-pesticides.                                         iii. As noted in Unit III.D.2., the
                                           System (PRZM/EXAMS) and Pesticide                                                                             available database shows evidence of
                                           Root Zone Model Ground Water (PRZM                      D. Safety Factor for Infants and
                                                                                                   Children                                              increased susceptibility of fetuses and
                                           GW), the estimated drinking water                                                                             offspring in a DNT study in rats and in
                                           concentrations (EDWCs) of                                  1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of             a developmental study in rabbits
                                           pyroxasulfone for acute exposures are                   FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply                   following in utero or post-natal
                                           estimated to be 16.7 parts per billion                  an additional tenfold (10X) margin of                 exposure to pyroxasulfone. The Agency
                                           (ppb) for surface water and 210 ppb for                 safety for infants and children in the                concludes, however, that there is no
                                           ground water. EDWCs of pyroxasulfone                    case of threshold effects to account for              residual uncertainty concerning these
                                           for chronic exposures for non-cancer                    prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the               effects. The available studies show clear
                                           assessments are estimated to be 4.5 ppb                 completeness of the database on toxicity              NOAELs and LOAELs for these effects,
                                           for surface water and 174 ppb for                       and exposure unless EPA determines                    which are occurring only at doses much
                                           ground water.                                           based on reliable data that a different               higher than the endpoints on which the
                                              Modeled estimates of drinking water                  margin of safety will be safe for infants             Agency is regulating.
                                           concentrations were directly entered                    and children. This additional margin of
                                           into the dietary exposure model. For                                                                             iv. There are no residual uncertainties
                                                                                                   safety is commonly referred to as the                 in the exposure databases. The dietary
                                           acute dietary risk assessment, the water                FQPA Safety Factor (SF). In applying
                                           concentration value of 210 ppb was                                                                            food exposure assessments were
                                                                                                   this provision, EPA either retains the                performed based on 100 PCT and
                                           used to assess the contribution to                      default value of 10X, or uses a different
                                           drinking water. For chronic dietary risk                                                                      tolerance-level residues or residues
                                                                                                   additional safety factor when reliable                based on field trials. EPA made
                                           assessment, the water concentration                     data available to EPA support the choice
                                           value of 174 ppb was used to assess the                                                                       conservative (protective) assumptions in
                                                                                                   of a different factor.                                the ground and surface water modeling
                                           contribution to drinking water.
                                              3. From non-dietary exposure. The                       2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity.             used to assess exposure to
                                           term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in                Pyroxasulfone did not exhibit                         pyroxasulfone in drinking water. These
                                           this document to refer to non-                          developmental toxicity in the rat                     assessments will not underestimate the
                                           occupational, non-dietary exposure                      guideline study at the limit dose of                  exposure and risks posed by
                                           (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,                1,000 mg/kg/day and it exhibited slight               pyroxasulfone.
                                           indoor pest control, termiticides, and                  developmental toxicity in rabbits
                                                                                                   (reduced fetal weight and resorptions) at             E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
                                           flea and tick control on pets).                                                                               Safety
                                              Pyroxasulfone is not registered for any              the limit dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day.
                                           specific use patterns that would result                 However, developmental effects                           EPA determines whether acute and
                                           in residential exposure.                                (decreased brain weight and                           chronic dietary pesticide exposures are
                                              Further information regarding EPA                    morphometric changes) were noted in                   safe by comparing aggregate exposure
                                           standard assumptions and generic                        offspring at 300 mg/kg/day in the rat                 estimates to the acute PAD (aPAD) and
                                           inputs for residential exposures may be                 developmental neurotoxicity (DNT)                     chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer
                                           found at http://www2.epa.gov/pesticide-                 study compared to no maternal toxicity                risks, EPA calculates the lifetime
                                           science-and-assessing-pesticide-risks/                  at 900 mg/kg/day. In a reproductive                   probability of acquiring cancer given the
                                           standard-operating-procedures-                          toxicity in rats, reduced pup weight and              estimated aggregate exposure. Short-,
                                           residential-pesticide.                                  body weight gains during lactation                    intermediate-, and chronic-term risks
                                              4. Cumulative effects from substances                occurred at similar or higher doses                   are evaluated by comparing the
                                           with a common mechanism of toxicity.                    causing pronounced maternal toxicity                  estimated aggregate food, water, and
                                           Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA                        (reduced body weight, body weight gain                residential exposure to the appropriate
                                           requires that, when considering whether                 and food consumption and increased                    PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE
                                           to establish, modify, or revoke a                       kidney weight, cardiomyopathy and                     exists.
                                           tolerance, the Agency consider                          urinary bladder mucosal hyperplasia                      1. Acute risk. Using the exposure
                                           ‘‘available information’’ concerning the                with inflammation).                                   assumptions discussed in this unit for
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                                           cumulative effects of a particular                         3. Conclusion. EPA has determined                  acute exposure analysis, the risk
                                           pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other                        that reliable data show the safety of                 estimate for acute dietary exposure from
                                           substances that have a common                           infants and children would be                         food and water to pyroxasulfone is at
                                           mechanism of toxicity.’’                                adequately protected if the FQPA SF                   3.7% of the aPAD for all infants less
                                              EPA has not found pyroxasulfone to                   were reduced to 1x. That decision is                  than 1 year old, the population group
                                           share a common mechanism of toxicity                    based on the following findings:                      receiving the greatest exposure. The


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                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                         54263

                                           acute dietary risk is not of concern                    telephone number: (410) 305–2905;                     0.70 ppm; (2) the proposed
                                           (<100% aPAD).                                           email address: residuemethods@                        pyroxasulfone tolerances on both
                                              2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure                  epa.gov.                                              Peppermint, fresh leaves and Spearmint,
                                           assumptions described in this unit for                                                                        fresh leaves at 0.15 ppm are being each
                                                                                                   B. International Residue Limits
                                           chronic exposure analysis, EPA has                                                                            established at 0.20 ppm; and (3) the
                                           concluded that risk estimates for                         In making its tolerance decisions, EPA              proposed tolerance on Leaf petiole
                                           chronic exposure to pyroxasulfone from                  seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with               vegetable subgroup 22B at 0.3 ppm is
                                           food and water are not of concern                       international standards whenever                      being established at 0.80 ppm.
                                           (<100% cPAD) with a risk estimate at                    possible, consistent with U.S. food                      In addition, although the petitioner
                                           50% of the cPAD for all infants less than               safety standards and agricultural                     requested a tolerance on Soybean,
                                           1 year old, the population group                        practices. EPA considers the                          vegetable, succulent at 0.2 ppm, this
                                           receiving the greatest exposure. There                  international maximum residue limits                  term is broad and covers two forms of
                                           are no residential uses for                             (MRLs) established by the Codex                       vegetable soybean—Soybean, vegetable,
                                           pyroxasulfone.                                          Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as                   succulent shelled, and Vegetable,
                                              3. Short-and intermediate term risk.                 required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).                  soybean, edible podded; therefore, to
                                           Short- and intermediate-term adverse                    The Codex Alimentarius is a joint                     conform to the Agency’s commodity
                                           effects were identified; however,                       United Nations Food and Agriculture                   terminology for soybeans, the Agency is
                                           pyroxasulfone is not registered for any                 Organization/World Health                             establishing the tolerance requested as
                                           use patterns that would result in short-                Organization food standards program,                  separate tolerances at 0.40 ppm for both
                                           or intermediate-term residential                        and it is recognized as an international              forms of succulent soybean vegetable.
                                           exposure. Short- and intermediate-term                  food safety standards-setting
                                                                                                                                                         V. Conclusion
                                           risk is assessed based on short- and                    organization in trade agreements to
                                           intermediate-term residential exposure                  which the United States is a party. EPA                  Therefore, tolerances are established
                                           plus chronic dietary exposure. Because                  may establish a tolerance that is                     for residues of pyroxasulfone, including
                                           there is no short- or intermediate-term                 different from a Codex MRL; however,                  its metabolites and degradates, in or on
                                           residential exposure and chronic dietary                FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that                 Cottonseed subgroup 20C at 0.04 ppm;
                                           exposure has already been assessed                      EPA explain the reasons for departing                 Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B at
                                           under the appropriately protective                      from the Codex level.                                 0.80 ppm; Peppermint, fresh leaves at
                                           cPAD (which is at least as protective as                  The Codex has not established a MRL                 0.20 ppm; Peppermint, oil at 0.70 ppm;
                                                                                                   for residues of pyroxasulfone in or on                Soybean, vegetable, succulent shelled at
                                           the POD used to assess short-term risk),
                                                                                                   any of the petitioned-for commodities                 0.40 ppm; Spearmint, fresh leaves at
                                           no further assessment of short- or
                                                                                                   associated with this regulatory action.               0.20 ppm; Spearmint, oil at 0.70 ppm;
                                           intermediate-term risk is necessary, and
                                                                                                                                                         and Vegetable, soybean, edible podded
                                           EPA relies on the chronic dietary risk                  C. Response to Comments                               at 0.40 ppm. In addition, tolerances
                                           assessment for evaluating short- and
                                                                                                     One anonymous public comment was                    with regional registrations are
                                           intermediate-term risk for
                                                                                                   received that expressed concerns about                established in or on Grass, forage at 0.50
                                           pyroxasulfone.
                                                                                                   the cost of EPA regulations to tax payers             ppm and Grass, hay 1.0 ppm. Lastly, the
                                              4. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
                                                                                                   and corporations. This comment did not                Agency is removing the existing
                                           population. As explained in Unit III.A.,
                                                                                                   raise any issue relevant to the Agency’s              pyroxasulfone tolerance on Cotton,
                                           the Agency has determined that the
                                                                                                   safety determination for this tolerance               undelinted seed that is superseded by
                                           quantification of risk using a non-linear
                                                                                                   action. Section 408 of the Federal Food,              this final rule.
                                           (i.e., RfD) approach will adequately
                                           account for all chronic toxicity,                       Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) allows                  VI. Statutory and Executive Order
                                           including carcinogenicity, that could                   EPA to set tolerances for residues of                 Reviews
                                           result from exposure to pyroxasulfone.                  pesticide chemicals when it determines
                                                                                                   that the tolerance meets the safety                     This action establishes tolerances
                                           Therefore, based on the results of the                                                                        under FFDCA section 408(d) in
                                           chronic risk assessment discussed in                    standard imposed by that statute. EPA
                                                                                                   has made that determination for the                   response to a petition submitted to the
                                           Unit III.E.2., pyroxasulfone is not                                                                           Agency. The Office of Management and
                                           expected to pose a cancer risk to                       pyroxasulfone tolerances established by
                                                                                                   this final rule.                                      Budget (OMB) has exempted these types
                                           humans.                                                                                                       of actions from review under Executive
                                              5. Determination of safety. Based on                 D. Revisions to Petitioned-For                        Order 12866, entitled ‘‘Regulatory
                                           these risk assessments, EPA concludes                   Tolerances                                            Planning and Review’’ (58 FR 51735,
                                           that there is a reasonable certainty that                 EPA calculated tolerance levels using               October 4, 1993). Because this action
                                           no harm will result to the general                      the Organization for Economic                         has been exempted from review under
                                           population, or to infants and children                  Cooperation and Development (OECD)                    Executive Order 12866, this action is
                                           from aggregate exposure to                              tolerance calculation procedures,                     not subject to Executive Order 13211,
                                           pyroxasulfone residues.                                 available field trial residue data, and               entitled ‘‘Actions Concerning
                                           IV. Other Considerations                                metabolite concentrations covered to                  Regulations That Significantly Affect
                                                                                                   parent equivalents. The Agency is also                Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use’’ (66
                                           A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology                   harmonizing with relevant Canadian                    FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive
                                             Adequate enforcement methodology                      MRLs. In addition, the Agency is using                Order 13045, entitled ‘‘Protection of
                                           (high performance liquid                                commodity terminology consistent with                 Children from Environmental Health
                                           chromatography/triple quadrupole mass                   the terms generally used for tolerances.              Risks and Safety Risks’’ (62 FR 19885,
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                                           spectrometry (LC/MS/MS)) is available                     As a result, the Agency is establishing             April 23, 1997); or Executive Order
                                           to enforce the tolerance expression.                    tolerances that differ from the                       13771, entitled ‘‘Reducing Regulations
                                             The method may be requested from:                     petitioned-for tolerances as follows: (1)             and Controlling Regulatory Costs’’ (82
                                           Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,                     The proposed pyroxasulfone tolerances                 FR 9339, February 3, 2017). This action
                                           Environmental Science Center, 701                       on both Peppermint, oil and Spearmint,                does not contain any information
                                           Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;                    oil at 0.48 ppm are being established at              collections subject to OMB approval


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                                           54264            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 209 / Monday, October 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                           under the Paperwork Reduction Act                       List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180                                     *      *    *     *    *
                                           (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does                  Environmental protection,                                                (c) Tolerance with regional
                                           it require any special considerations                   Administrative practice and procedure,                                  registrations. Tolerances are established
                                           under Executive Order 12898, entitled                   Agricultural commodities, Pesticides                                    for residues of the herbicide
                                           ‘‘Federal Actions to Address                            and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping                                  pyroxasulfone, including its metabolites
                                           Environmental Justice in Minority                       requirements.                                                           and degradates, in or on the
                                           Populations and Low-Income                                                                                                      commodities in the table below.
                                                                                                     Dated: October 9, 2018.                                               Compliance with the tolerance levels
                                           Populations’’ (59 FR 7629, February 16,
                                                                                                   Michael L. Goodis,                                                      specified below is to be determined by
                                           1994).
                                                                                                   Director, Registration Division, Office of                              measuring only the sum of
                                              Since tolerances and exemptions that                 Pesticide Programs.                                                     pyroxasulfone (3-[(5-difluoromethoxy-1-
                                           are established on the basis of a petition                Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is                                        methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol-4-
                                           under FFDCA section 408(d), such as                     amended as follows:                                                     ylmethylsulfonyl]-4,5-dihydro-5,5-
                                           the tolerance in this final rule, do not                                                                                        dimethyl-1,2-oxazole), and its
                                           require the issuance of a proposed rule,                PART 180—[AMENDED]                                                      metabolites, M–1 (5-difluoromethoxy-1-
                                           the requirements of the Regulatory                                                                                              methyl-3-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-
                                           Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 180
                                                                                                                                                                           yl)methanesulfonic acid), M–3 (5-
                                           seq.), do not apply.                                    continues to read as follows:
                                                                                                                                                                           difluoromethoxy-1-methyl-3-
                                              This action directly regulates growers,                  Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.                          trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-carboxylic
                                           food processors, food handlers, and food                ■  2. In § 180.659:                                                     acid), M–25 (5-difluoromethoxy-3-
                                           retailers, not States or tribes, nor does               ■  a. In the table in paragraph (a)(1):                                 trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazol-4-
                                           this action alter the relationships or                  ■  i. Remove the entry ‘‘Cotton,                                        yl)methanesulfonic acid) and M–28 (3-
                                           distribution of power and                               undelinted seed’’;                                                      [1-carboxy-2-(5,5-dimethyl-4,5-
                                           responsibilities established by Congress                ■ ii. Add alphabetically the commodity,                                 dihydroisoxazol-3-ylthio)ethylamino]-3-
                                           in the preemption provisions of FFDCA                   ’’Cottonseed subgroup 20C’’;                                            oxopropanoic acid) calculated as the
                                                                                                   ■ b. In the table in paragraph (a)(5), add                              stoichiometric equivalent of
                                           section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency
                                           has determined that this action will not                alphabetically the commodities, ‘‘Leaf                                  pyroxasulfone, in or on the commodity.
                                           have a substantial direct effect on States              petiole vegetable subgroup 22B’’;
                                                                                                   ‘‘Peppermint, fresh leaves’’;                                                                                                        Parts per
                                           or tribal governments, on the                                                                                                                       Commodity                                 million
                                           relationship between the national                       ‘‘Peppermint, oil’’; ‘‘Soybean, vegetable,
                                                                                                   succulent shelled’’; ‘‘Spearmint fresh                                  Grass, forage ...........................................         0.50
                                           government and the States or tribal                                                                                             Grass, hay ...............................................         1.0
                                                                                                   leaves’’; ‘‘Spearmint, oil’’; and
                                           governments, or on the distribution of
                                                                                                   ‘‘Vegetable, soybean, edible podded’’;
                                           power and responsibilities among the                                                                                            *         *         *         *         *
                                                                                                   and
                                           various levels of government or between                 ■ c. Revise paragraph (c).                                              [FR Doc. 2018–23002 Filed 10–26–18; 8:45 am]
                                           the Federal Government and Indian                          The additions and revisions read as                                  BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
                                           tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined                 follows:
                                           that Executive Order 13132, entitled
                                           ‘‘Federalism’’ (64 FR 43255, August 10,                 § 180.659 Pyroxasulfone; tolerances for                                 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
                                           1999) and Executive Order 13175,                        residues.
                                           entitled ‘‘Consultation and Coordination                      (a) * * *                                                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric
                                           with Indian Tribal Governments’’ (65 FR                       (1) * * *                                                         Administration
                                           67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply                                                                               Parts per
                                           to this action. In addition, this action                                    Commodity                                           50 CFR Part 648
                                                                                                                                                                million
                                           does not impose any enforceable duty or                                                                                         [Docket No. 170828822–70999–04]
                                           contain any unfunded mandate as                               *        *        *             *                      *
                                           described under Title II of the Unfunded                                                                                        RIN 0648–XG574
                                                                                                   Cottonseed, subgroup 20C .....................                   0.04
                                           Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) (2 U.S.C.
                                                                                                            *            *             *            *           *          Fisheries of the Northeastern United
                                           1501 et seq.).
                                                                                                                                                                           States; Summer Flounder Fishery;
                                              This action does not involve any                     *         *    *              *         *                               Quota Transfer
                                           technical standards that would require                        (5) * * *
                                           Agency consideration of voluntary                                                                                               AGENCY:  National Marine Fisheries
                                           consensus standards pursuant to section                                                                             Parts per   Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
                                                                                                                       Commodity
                                           12(d) of the National Technology
                                                                                                                                                                million    Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
                                           Transfer and Advancement Act                                                                                                    Commerce.
                                           (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).                                 *         *         *       *                          *          ACTION: Temporary rule; quota transfer.
                                                                                                   Leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B .....                        0.80
                                           VII. Congressional Review Act                                                                                                   SUMMARY:   NMFS announces that the
                                                                                                        *          *               *               *            *          State of North Carolina is transferring a
                                             Pursuant to the Congressional Review                  Peppermint, fresh leaves ........................                0.20   portion of its 2018 commercial summer
                                                                                                   Peppermint, oil ........................................         0.70
                                           Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA will                                                                                            flounder quota to the State of New York.
                                           submit a report containing this rule and                     *           *               *               *           *          This quota adjustment is necessary to
                                           other required information to the U.S.                  Soybean, vegetable, succulent shelled ...                        0.40   comply with the Summer Flounder,
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                                           Senate, the U.S. House of                               Spearmint, fresh leaves ..........................               0.20   Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery
                                                                                                   Spearmint, oil ..........................................        0.70
                                           Representatives, and the Comptroller                                                                                            Management Plan quota transfer
                                           General of the United States prior to                         *        *         *        *                          *          provisions. This announcement informs
                                           publication of the rule in the Federal                  Vegetable, soybean, edible podded ........                       0.40   the public of the revised commercial
                                           Register. This action is not a ‘‘major                                                                                          quotas for North Carolina and New
                                                                                                            *            *             *            *           *
                                           rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).                                                                                           York.


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Document Created: 2018-10-27 01:08:05
Document Modified: 2018-10-27 01:08:05
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 October 29, 2018. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before December 28, 2018, 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 Citation83 FR 54259 
CFR AssociatedEnvironmental Protection; Administrative Practice and Procedure; Agricultural Commodities; Pesticides and Pests and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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