Pesticides; Certification of Pesticide Applicators

EPA is proposing changes to the existing regulation concerning the certification of applicators of restricted use pesticides (RUPs) in response to extensive stakeholder review of the regulation and its implementation since 1974. EPA's proposed changes would ensure the Federal certification program standards adequately protect applicators, the public, and the environment from risks associated with use of RUPs. The proposed changes are intended to improve the competency of certified applicators of RUPs, increase protection for noncertified applicators of RUPs operating under the direct supervision of a certified applicator through enhanced pesticide safety training and standards for supervision of noncertified applicators, and establish a minimum age requirement for certified and noncertified applicators. In keeping with EPA's commitment to work more closely with Tribal governments to strengthen environmental protection in Indian country, certain changes are intended to provide more practical options for establishing certification programs in Indian country.