Propylene Carbonate; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance
[Federal Register: September 5, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 172)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 52695-52700]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr05se03-7]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[OPP-2003-0284; FRL-7323-7]
Propylene Carbonate; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement
of a tolerance for residues of propylene carbonate when used as an
inert ingredient in pesticide formulations applied pre- and post-
harvest to agricultural commodities. Huntsman Corporation submitted a
petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, as
amended by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996, requesting an
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation
eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for
residues of propylene carbonate.
DATES: This regulation is effective September 5, 2003. Objections and
requests for hearings, identified by docket ID number OPP-2003-0284,
must be received on or before November 4, 2003.
ADDRESSES: Written objections and hearing requests submitted
electronically, by mail, or through hand delivery/courier. Follow the
detailed instructions as provided in Unit VIII. of the SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathryn Boyle, Registration Division
(7505C), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency,
1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone
number: (703) 305-6304; e-mail address: boyle.kathryn@epa.gov.
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.
Potentially affected entities may include, but are not limited to:
? Crop production (NAICS 111)
? Animal production (NAICS 112)
? Food manufacturing (NAICS 311)
? Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS 32532)
This listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides
a guide for readers regarding entities likely to be affected by this
action. Other types of entities not listed in this unit could also be
affected. The North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS)
codes have been provided to assist you and others in determining
whether this action might apply to certain entities. If you have any
questions regarding the applicability of this action to a particular
entity, consult the person listed underFOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.
B. How Can I Get Copies of this Document and Other Related Information?
1. Docket. EPA has established an official public docket for this
action under docket identification (ID) number OPP-2003-0284. The
official public docket consists of the documents specifically
referenced in this action, any public comments received, and other
information related to this action. Although a part of the official
docket, the public docket does not include Confidential Business
Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted
by statute. The official public docket is the collection of materials
that is available for public viewing at the Public Information and
Records Integrity Branch (PIRIB), Rm. 119, Crystal Mall #2,
1921 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Arlington, VA. This docket facility is open
from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The docket telephone number is (703) 305-5805.
2. Electronic access. You may access this Federal Register document
electronically through the EPA Internet under the ``Federal Register''
listings athttp://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/. A frequently updated
electronic version of 40 CFR part 180 is available at http://www.access.
gpo.gov/nara/cfr/cfrhtml_00/Title_40/40cfr180_00.html,
a beta site currently under development.
An electronic version of the public docket is available through
EPA's electronic public docket and comment system, EPA Dockets. You may
use EPA Dockets at http://www.regulations.gov/ to submit or view public
comments, access the index listing of the contents of the official
public docket, and to access those documents in the public docket that
are available electronically. Although not all docket materials may be
available electronically, you may still
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access any of the publicly available docket materials through the
docket facility identified in Unit I.B.1. Once in the system, select
``search,'' then key in the appropriate docket ID number.
II. Background and Statutory Findings
In the Federal Register of December 30, 1998 (63 FR 71920) (FRL-
6050-1), EPA issued a notice pursuant to section 408 of the Federal
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), 21 U.S.C. 346a, as amended by the
Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) (Public Law 104-170), announcing the
filing of a pesticide tolerance petition (PP 8E4992) by Huntsman
Corporation, Houston, Texas. This notice included a summary of the
petition prepared by the petitioner Huntsman. There were no comments
received in response to the notice of filing.
The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.1001(c) be amended by
establishing an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of propylene carbonate, also known as 1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, 4-
methyl- (CAS Reg. No. 108-32-7).
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of the FFDCA allows EPA to establish an
exemption from the requirement for 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) 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) 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. . . .''
EPA performs a number of analyses to determine the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide residues. First, EPA determines the
toxicity of pesticides. Second, EPA examines exposure to the pesticide
through food, drinking water, and through other exposures that occur as
a result of pesticide use in residential settings.
III. Human Health Assessment
A. Toxicological Profile
Consistent with section 408(b)(2)(D) of FFDCA, EPA has reviewed the
available scientific data and other relevant information in support of
this action and considered its validity, completeness and reliability
and the relationship of this information 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 nature of the toxic effects caused by
propylene carbonate are discussed in this unit. The Agency has reviewed
12 toxicity studies using propylene carbonate as the test substance.
The results of those reviews are listed in the following Table 1:
Table 1.--Toxicity Studies Using Propylene Carbonate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Study Type Results
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acute oral (rat) LD50 > 5,000 mg/kg
(Toxicity Category IV)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acute dermal (rabbit) LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg
(Toxicity Category III)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Primary eye irritation (rabbit) Not a significant ocular
irritant (Toxicity Category
III)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Primary dermal irritation (Toxicity Category IV)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Developmental (rat) Maternal NOAEL = 1,000 mg/kg/
day
Maternal LOAEL = 3,000 mg/kg/
day based on mortality,
clinical signs and
decreased food consumption
Developmental NOAEL = 3,000
mg/kg/day
Developmental LOAEL = 5,000
mg/kg/day based on increase
in skeletal variations
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113-week feeding (rat) NOAEL = equal to or greater
than 5,000 mg/kg/day
(HTD - highest dose tested)
LOAEL = would be greater
than 5,000 mg/kg/day
------------------------------------------------------------------------
113-week inhalation (rat) with neurotox NOAEL = 0.5 mg/L/day
LOAEL = 1.0 mg/L/daybased on
clinical signs in both
sexes
No evidence of
neurotoxicpotential
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cancer dermal (skin-painting) (mouse) Negative, but dosing was
considered inadequate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9-day inhalation (rat) NOAEL = not determined -
effects seen at lowest dose
tested
LOAEL = 1 mg/L/day based on
clinical signs of
toxicity,ocular irritation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mouse micronucleus Not mutagenic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
UDS Negative
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gene mutation(S. typhimurium) Negative
------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. Structure Activity Relationship Assessment
For propylene carbonate, toxicity was assessed, in part, by a
process called structure-activity-relationship (SAR). In this process,
the chemical's structural similarity to other chemicals (for which data
are available) is used to determine toxicity. For human health, this
process, can be used to assess absorption and metabolism, mutagenicity,
carcinogenicity, developmental and reproductive effects, neurotoxicity,
systemic effects, immunotoxicity, and sensitization and irritation.
This is a qualitative assessment using terms such as good, not likely,
poor, moderate, or high.
For propylene carbonate the SAR assessment determined that the
chemical was not structurally related to any known carcinogens. The
following human exposures were examined as part of the analysis:
Inhalation, dermal, exposures to the eyes, and drinking water.
Absorption of propylene carbonate is expected to be good (well-
absorbed) via all routes (oral, dermal and inhalation) based on
physical/chemical properties. There are concerns for effects on the
liver and kidneys, solvent-type neurotoxicity and developmental
toxicity at high dose levels, and irritation to mucous
[[Page 52697]]
membranes. The overall SAR rating for human health is low/moderate
concern.
The SAR did note a concern for solvent neurotoxicity, i.e.,
neurotoxic effects that can occur due to ``high'' and/or ``prolonged''
dermal and inhalation exposures to organic solvents. It should be noted
that the inclusion of the phrase ``solvent-type neurotoxicity'' in the
SAR assessment does not necessarily indicate chemical-specific
concerns. By including this statement those performing the SAR
assessment are acknowledging that the chemical is a member of a class
of chemicals that can exhibit solvent neurotoxicity.
C. Conclusions
The Agency used two sources of information to determine the
toxicity of propylene carbonate: The 12 toxicity studies submitted by
the petitioner and reviewed by the Agency, and a SAR assessment. The
two sources of data support each other. However, results of the SAR
Assessment are a type of predicted data based in part on surrogate
data. There is actual data generated using propylene carbonate as the
test substance, and actual data has precedence over predicted data.
The Agency reviewed a propylene carbonate developmental toxicity
study in the rat with a maternal no observed adverse effect level
(NOAEL) of 1,000 milligrams/kilogram/day (mg/kg/day) and a maternal
lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of 3,000 mg/kg/day based
on mortality, clinical signs and decreased food consumption. In the
same study, the developmental NOAEL is 3,000 mg/kg/day and the
developmental LOAEL is 5,000 mg/kg/day based on an increase in skeletal
variations. In a propylene carbonate 13-week rat feeding study the
NOAEL is equal to or greater than 5,000 mg/kg/day, the highest dose
tested. A LOAEL was not identified in that study, but it would be even
greater than 5,000 mg/kg/day. It is noted that each of these NOAELs is
equal to or greater than 1,000 mg/kg/day. As a matter of practice, for
both the developmental and the 13-week toxicity study, the Agency does
not encourage testing above 1,000 mg/kg/day. The lack of effects at
1,000 mg/kg/day is considered adequate to define the toxicity, without
pushing the dose levels higher until effects are apparent.
The SAR assessment judged propylene carbonate to be of low/moderate
concern. It did not identify any carcinogenic concerns. One identified
concern was for possible irritation to mucous membranes. This concern
would involve the dermal and inhalation exposure routes and would be
addressed through the use of protective equipment such as gloves and
respirators, not through establishment of tolerance exemptions.
A concern predicted by the SAR, based on its structural chemistry
and chemical class, is for possible solvent neurotoxicity from exposure
to propylene carbonate. As previously explained, this statement
acknowledges that propylene carbonate is a member of a class of
chemicals that can exhibit solvent neurotoxicity. However, the
propylene carbonate data base includes a 13-week inhalation toxicity
study in the rat with a neurotoxicity evaluation. Based on its review
and evaluation of this inhalation toxicity study, the Agency determined
that there was no evidence of neurotoxicity potential.
The SAR also indicated a concern for developmental toxicity at high
dose levels. However, the Agency reviewed a propylene carbonate
developmental toxicity study in the rat with a maternal NOAEL of 1,000
mg/kg/day and a maternal LOAEL of 3,000 mg/kg/day based on mortality,
clinical signs and decreased food consumption. In the same study, the
developmental NOAEL is 3,000 mg/kg/day and the developmental LOAEL is
5,000 mg/kg/day based on increase in skeletal variations.
Considering the NOAELs of greater than 1,000 mg/kg/day for the
propylene carbonate toxicity studies and the overall judgement of low/
moderate concern from the SAR assessment, propylene carbonate is of low
toxicological concern.
IV. Aggregate Exposures
In examining aggregate exposure, FFDCA section 408 directs EPA to
consider available information concerning exposures from the pesticide
residue in food and all other non-occupational exposures, including
drinking water from ground water or surface water and exposure through
pesticide use in gardens, lawns, or buildings (residential and other
indoor uses).
Over 1 million pounds of propylene carbonate are either produced or
imported per year. Some of this propylene carbonate production is used
as a chemical intermediate, in the production of other chemicals.
Propylene carbonate has been approved by the Food and Drug
Administration for use as an indirect food additive as a component of
adhesives. According to 21 CFR 175.105, propylene carbonate can be a
component of an adhesive used as part of ``articles intended for use in
packaging, transporting, or holding food.'' Propylene carbonate is also
used in cosmetics. Information on the internet (Huntsman website)
indicates that propylene carbonate is used in tub and tile cleaners,
hard surface and floor cleaners that could be used in and around the
home.
The Agency has used various screening-level models to estimate some
of the existing levels of exposure, and those that could occur as a
result of establishing this tolerance exemption. To assure
protectiveness, these estimates are deliberately intended to over-
estimate exposure as shown in the following Table 2:
Table 2.--Screening-Levels of Exposure Using Propylene Carbonate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of Exposure Exposure Level
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dietary - Food (as a result of application Acute exposure: Less than 1
to crops) mg/kg/day at 95th
percentile
chronic exposure: Less than
1 mg/kg/day
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dietary - Drinking Water Acute exposure: Much less
than 1 mg/kg/day
Chronic exposure: Much less
than 1 mg/kg/day
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residential (as a result of using a Approximately 6 mg/kg/day
cleaning product)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residential (as a result of using a Approximately 1 mg/kg/day
laundry detergent)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residential (as a result of application to Less than 1 mg/kg/day
a lawn)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
With one exception all of the screening-level exposure estimates
are in the range of or less than 1 mg/kg/day. The existing studies for
propylene carbonate yielded NOAELs that were equal to or greater than
1,000 mg/kg/day. The screening-level exposure estimates are orders of
magnitude lower than these NOAELs. Even considering the reported uses,
the use of propylene carbonate as an inert ingredient should result in
human exposure far below any dose level that could possibly produce an
adverse effect.
V. Cumulative Effects from Substances with a Common Mechanism of
Toxicity
Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of the FFDCA requires that, when
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the
Agency
[[Page 52698]]
consider``available information'' concerning the cumulative effects of
a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances that have a
common mechanism of toxicity.''
EPA does not have, at this time, available data to determine
whether propylene carbonate has a common mechanism of toxicity with
other substances. Unlike other pesticides for which EPA has followed a
cumulative risk approach based on a common mechanism of toxicity, EPA
has not made a common mechanism of toxicity finding as to propylene
carbonate and any other substances and propylene carbonate does not
appear to produce a toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For
the purposes of this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has not assumed
that propylene carbonate has 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 the policy statements
released by EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs concerning common
mechanism determinations and procedures for cumulating effects from
substances found to have a common mechanism on EPA's website at
http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative/.
VI. Determination of Safety for U.S. Population, Infants and Children
Based on the available data, the SAR assessment indicating low/
moderate concern and the data submitted by the petitioner, Huntsman
Corporation, which indicate that the chemical is of low toxicological
concern, EPA concludes that propylene carbonate does not pose a dietary
risk under reasonably foreseeable circumstances. Accordingly, EPA finds
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the
general population, and to infants and children from aggregate exposure
to propylene carbonate. Due to the expected low oral toxicity, a safety
factor analysis has not been used to assess the risk. For the same
reasons and especially considering the developmental toxicity NOAEL,
the additional tenfold safety factor for the protection of infants and
children is unnecessary.
Based on the information in this preamble, EPA concludes that there
is a reasonable certainty of no harm from aggregate exposure to
residues of 1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, 4-methyl- (propylene carbonate).
Accordingly, EPA finds that exempting 1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, 4-methyl-
(propylene carbonate) (CAS Reg. No. 108-32-7) from the requirement of a
tolerance will be safe.
VII. Other Considerations
A. Endocrine Disruptors
FQPA requires EPA to develop a screening program to determine
whether certain substances, including all pesticide chemicals (both
inert and active ingredients), ``may have an effect in humans that is
similar to an effect produced by a naturally occurring estrogen, or
such other endocrine effect. . .'' EPA has been working with interested
stakeholders to develop a screening and testing program as well as a
priority setting scheme. As the Agency proceeds with implementation of
this program, further testing of products containing propylene
carbonate for endocrine effects may be required.
B. Analytical Method(s)
An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since
the Agency is establishing an exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance without any numerical limitation.
C. Existing Tolerances
There are no existing tolerances or tolerance exemptions for
propylene carbonate.
D. International Tolerances
The Agency is not aware of any country requiring a tolerance for
propylene carbonate nor have any CODEX Maximum Residue Levels been
established for any food crops at this time.
E. List 4A (Minimal Risk) Classification
The Agency established 40 CFR 180.950 (see the rationale in the
proposed rule published January 15, 2002 (67 FR 1925) (FRL-6807-8)) to
collect the tolerance exemptions for those substances classified as
List 4A, i.e., minimal risk substances. As part of evaluating an inert
ingredient and establishing the tolerance exemption, the Agency
determines the chemical's list classification.
The available data and the SAR assessment indicated propylene
carbonate is of lower toxicity. Given the NOAELs of greater than 1,000
mg/kg/day and the acute toxicity studies that were category III and IV,
it has been determined that propylene carbonate, also known as 1,3-
Dioxolan-2-one, 4-methyl- (CAS Reg. No. 108-32-7) is to be classified
as a List 4A inert ingredient. Thus, the tolerance exemption will be
established in 40 CFR 180.950 instead of 40 CFR 180.1001(c) as
requested by the petitioner, Huntsman.
VIII. Conclusions
Based on the information in the record, summarized in this
preamble, EPA concludes that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm
from aggregate exposure to residues of propylene carbonate (CAS Reg.
No. 108-32-7). Accordingly, EPA finds that exempting propylene
carbonate from the requirement of a tolerance will be safe.
IX. Objections and Hearing Requests
Under section 408(g) of the FFDCA, as amended by the FQPA, any
person may file an objection to any aspect of this regulation and may
also request a hearing on those objections. The EPA procedural
regulations which govern the submission of objections and requests for
hearings appear in 40 CFR part 178. Although the procedures in those
regulations require some modification to reflect the amendments made to
the FFDCA by the FQPA of 1996, EPA will continue to use those
procedures, with appropriate adjustments, until the necessary
modifications can be made. The new section 408(g) provides essentially
the same process for persons to ``object '' to a regulation for an
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance issued by EPA under new
section 408(d), as was provided in the old FFDCA sections 408 and 409.
However, the period for filing objections is now 60 days, rather than
30 days.
A. What Do I Need to Do to File an Objection or Request a Hearing?
You must file your objection or request a hearing on this
regulation in accordance with the instructions provided in this unit
and in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID numberOPP-2003-0284 in the subject line on the first
page of your submission. All requests must be in writing, and must be
mailed or delivered to the Hearing Clerk on or before November 4, 2003.
1. Filing the request. Your objection must specify the specific
provisions in the regulation that you object to, and the grounds for
the objections (40 CFR 178.25). If a hearing is requested, the
objections must include a statement of the factual issues(s) on which a
hearing is requested, the requestor's contentions on such issues, and a
summary of any evidence relied upon by the objector (40 CFR 178.27).
Information submitted in connection with an objection or hearing
request may be claimed confidential by marking any part or all of that
information as CBI. Information so marked will not be disclosed except
in accordance with procedures set forth in
[[Page 52699]]
40 CFR part 2. A copy of the information that does not contain CBI must
be submitted for inclusion in the public record. Information not marked
confidential may be disclosed publicly by EPA without prior notice.
Mail your written request to: Office of the Hearing Clerk (1900C),
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.,
Washington, DC 20460-0001. You may also deliver your request to the
Office of the Hearing Clerk in Rm. 104, Crystal Mall #2, 1921
Jefferson Davis Hwy., Arlington, VA. The Office of the Hearing Clerk is
open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The telephone number for the Office of the Hearing Clerk is
(703) 603-0061.
2. Tolerance fee payment. If you file an objection or request a
hearing, you must also pay the fee prescribed by 40 CFR 180.33(i) or
request a waiver of that fee pursuant to 40 CFR 180.33(m). You must
mail the fee to: EPA Headquarters Accounting Operations Branch, Office
of Pesticide Programs, P.O. Box 360277M, Pittsburgh, PA 15251. Please
identify the fee submission by labeling it ``Tolerance Petition Fees.''
EPA is authorized to waive any fee requirement ``when in the
judgement of the Administrator such a waiver or refund is equitable and
not contrary to the purpose of this subsection.'' For additional
information regarding the waiver of these fees, you may contact James
Tompkins by phone at (703) 305-5697, by e-mail at tompkins.jim@epa.gov,
or by mailing a request for information to Mr. Tompkins at Registration
Division (7505C), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental
Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-
0001.
If you would like to request a waiver of the tolerance objection
fees, you must mail your request for such a waiver to: James Hollins,
Information Resources and Services Division (7502C), Office of
Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania
Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001.
3. Copies for the Docket. In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk as described in Unit IX.A., you
should also send a copy of your request to the PIRIB for its inclusion
in the official record that is described in Unit I.B.1. Mail your
copies, identified by docket ID number OPP-2003-0284, to: Public
Information and Records Integrity Branch, Information Resources and
Services Division (7502C), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental
Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-
0001. In person or by courier, bring a copy to the location of the
PIRIB described in Unit I.B.1. You may also send an electronic copy of
your request via e-mail to: opp-docket@epa.gov. Please use an ASCII file
format and avoid the use of special characters and any form of
encryption. Copies of electronic objections and hearing requests will
also be accepted on disks in WordPerfect 6.1/8.0 or ASCII file format.
Do not include any CBI in your electronic copy. You may also submit an
electronic copy of your request at many Federal Depository Libraries.
B. When Will the Agency Grant a Request for a Hearing?
A request for a hearing will be granted if the Administrator
determines that the material submitted shows the following: There is a
genuine and substantial issue of fact; there is a reasonable
possibility that available evidence identified by the requestor would,
if established resolve one or more of such issues in favor of the
requestor, taking into account uncontested claims or facts to the
contrary; and resolution of the factual issues(s) in the manner sought
by the requestor would be adequate to justify the action requested (40
CFR 178.32).
X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This final rule establishes an exemption from the tolerance
requirement 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 rule has been exempted from review under Executive
Order 12866 due to its lack of significance, this rule is not subject
to Executive Order 13211,Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use (66 FR 28355,
May 22, 2001). This final rule does not contain any information
collections subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA), 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq., or impose any enforceable duty or
contain any unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) (Public Law 104-4). 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);
or OMB review or any Agency action under Executive Order 13045,
entitled Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and
Safety Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997). 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 of 1995 (NTTAA),
Public Law 104-113, section 12(d) (15 U.S.C. 272 note). Since
tolerances and exemptions that are established on the basis of a
petition under FFDCA section 408(d), such as the exemption 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. In addition, the Agency has determined that this
action will not have a substantial direct effect on States, on the
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of
government, as specified in Executive Order 13132, entitledFederalism
(64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999). Executive Order 13132 requires EPA to
develop an accountable process to ensure``meaningful and timely input
by State and local officials in the development of regulatory policies
that have federalism implications.''``Policies that have federalism
implications'' is defined in the Executive Order to include regulations
that have ``substantial direct effects on the States, on the
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of
government.'' This final rule directly regulates growers, food
processors, food handlers and food retailers, not States. This action
does not alter the relationships or distribution of power and
responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption provisions
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). For these same reasons, the Agency has
determined that this rule does not have any ``tribal implications'' as
described in Executive Order 13175, entitled Consultation and
Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments (59 FR 22951, November 6,
2000). Executive Order 13175, requires EPA to develop an accountable
process to ensure``meaningful and timely input by tribal officials in
the development of regulatory policies that have tribal implications.''
``Policies that have tribal implications'' is defined in the Executive
Order to include regulations that have ``substantial direct effects on
[[Page 52700]]
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal
Government and the Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.''
This rule will not have substantial direct effects on tribal
governments, on the relationship between the Federal Government and
Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, as specified in
Executive Order 13175. Thus, Executive Order 13175 does not apply to
this rule.
XI. Congressional Review Act
The Congressional Review Act, 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq., as added by the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, generally
provides that before a rule may take effect, the agency promulgating
the rule must submit a rule report, which includes a copy of the rule,
to each House of the Congress and to the Comptroller General of the
United States. 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 this final rule in theFederal Register. This final
rule 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: August 22, 2003.
Peter Caulkins,
Acting Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs.
? Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows:
PART 180--[AMENDED]
? 1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346(a) and 371.
? 2. Section 180.950 is amended by adding alphabetically the following
ingredient to the table in paragraph (e) to read as follows.
Sec. 180.950 Tolerance exemptions for minimal risk active and inert
ingredients.
* * * * *
(e) * * *
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Chemical CAS No.
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* * * * *
1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, 4-methyl-(propylene carbonate)......... 108-32-7
* * * * *
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[FR Doc. 03-22546 Filed 9-4-03; 8:45am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-S