Which agency is responsible for regulating pesticides in the United States?

• A. US Environmental Protection Agency
• B. FDA
• C. OSHA
• D. USDA

Answer: (A)

Regulating pesticides in the United States is led by the Environmental Protection Agency. This agency registers pesticide products and requires labeling that dictates how the product can be used to protect people, crops, and the environment. Before a product can be sold, EPA evaluates data on toxicity, exposure, and environmental impact, then sets conditions on application methods, rates, PPE, and restricted entry intervals to ensure benefits outweigh risks. The label becomes the rulebook for use.

Other agencies have related duties, such as the FDA handling residue safety in food and cosmetics, OSHA overseeing workplace safety, and USDA involved in agricultural policy and inspections, but EPA is the central authority responsible for pesticide regulation, product approval, and required labeling.