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[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 59 (Friday, March 27, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16296-16302]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-06861]

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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2014-0209; FRL-9924-60]

Deltamethrin; Pesticide Tolerances

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of the 
insecticide deltamethrin in or on all food and feed commodities from 
use of deltamethrin as a wide-area mosquito adulticide. Bayer 
CropScience requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, 
and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).

DATES: This regulation is effective March 27, 2015. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before May 26, 2015, 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-2014-0209, 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: Susan Lewis, 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: RDFRNotices@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. 
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.

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-2014-0209 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 
May 26, 2015. 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-2014-0209, 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 January 28, 2015 (80 FR 4527) (FRL-9921-
60), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408(d)(3), 21 
U.S.C. 346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP 
[3F8210]) by Bayer CropScience, 2 T.W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle 
Park, NC 27709. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.435 be amended 
by establishing a tolerance for residues of the insecticide 
deltamethrin, (1R,3R)-R-cyano(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl 3-(2,2-
dibromoethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate, in or on food and 
feed commodities at 0.05 parts per million (ppm) from use as a wide-
area mosquito adulticide. That document referenced a summary of the 
petition prepared by Bayer CropScience, the registrant, which is 
available in the docket, http://www.regulations.gov. One comment was 
received on the notice of filing. EPA's response to the comment is 
discussed in Unit IV.C.

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

[[Page 16297]]

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 deltamethrin including exposure 
resulting from the tolerances established by this action. EPA's 
assessment of exposures and risks associated with deltamethrin follows.

A. Toxicological Profile

    EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered its 
validity, completeness, and reliability as 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. Deltamethrin, a Type II pyrethroid, targets the nervous 
system by disrupting the voltage-gated sodium channels, resulting in 
neurotoxicity. Neurotoxicity was observed throughout the toxicity 
database, and effects were seen across species, sexes, exposure 
duration, and routes of administration. Clinical signs characteristic 
of Type II pyrethroids, such as increased salivation, altered mobility/
gait, and tremors were the most common effects observed. Increased 
sensitivity to external stimuli, abnormal vocalization, and decreased 
fore- and hind-limb grip strength were also commonly observed in the 
database.
    Deltamethrin is rapidly absorbed following an oral dose, and 
effects are typically observed within two to five hours after dosing. 
For pyrethroids, as a class, the combination of rapid absorption, 
metabolism, and elimination precludes accumulation and increased 
potency following repeated dosing. This is also true of deltamethrin. 
No observed adverse effect levels (NOAELs) for the acute and chronic 
studies are similar, and the acute endpoint is protective of the 
endpoints from repeat dosing studies.
    A dermal risk assessment was not conducted based on the lack of 
effects in a 21-day dermal study and low potential for dermal 
absorption for deltamethrin. These findings are consistent with the 
toxicology profile of many pyrethroids.
    Deltamethrin did not have any adverse effects on fetuses or 
offspring in the prenatal developmental studies in rats and rabbits. 
However, potential qualitative susceptibility was observed at high 
doses in the developmental neurotoxicity study (DNT) and the 2-
generation reproduction study. Symptoms included vocalization, 
decreased pre- and post-weaning body weight in pups of both sexes, 
decreased body weight and body weight gain in maternal animals, 
hyperactivity, and excessive salivation. The increased qualitative 
susceptibility in the DNT and 2-generation reproduction study was 
observed at doses 10- to 20-fold higher (near lethal doses) than the 
current points of departure (PODs) selected for risk assessment. At 
doses near the POD, no effects on parental animals or offspring were 
observed in either the DNT or 2-generation reproductive studies. 
Therefore, the current PODs are protective of the observed sensitivity.
    There was no evidence of immunotoxicity after deltamethrin exposure 
in the toxicology database or in an immunotoxicity study in rats. 
Deltamethrin is classified as ``not likely to be carcinogenic to 
humans.'' There was no evidence of carcinogenicity in the combined 
chronic/carcinogenicity study in rats or the carcinogenicity study in 
mice. In a battery of mutagenicity studies there was no evidence of a 
mutagenic effect.
    The database shows that deltamethrin has moderate to minimal acute 
toxicity via the oral route, moderate acute toxicity via the inhalation 
route, and minimal acute toxicity via the dermal route of exposure. 
Deltamethrin is minimally irritating to the eyes, non-irritating to the 
skin, and is not a skin sensitizer.
    The Agency is making best use of the extensive scientific knowledge 
about the mode of action/adverse outcome pathway (MOA/AOP) on 
pyrethroids in the risk assessments for this class of pesticides. A 
significant portion of the scientific literature on pyrethroids 
utilizes deltamethrin as the test chemical. In the on-going work by the 
Council for the Advancement of Pyrethroid Human Risk Assessment 
(CAPHRA), deltamethrin is one of two sentinel pyrethroids being used to 
develop the initial, extensive database of in vitro and in vivo 
toxicology studies and highly refined physiologically-based 
pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models. Pharmacokinetics (PK) can be defined as 
what the body does to the chemical. The underlying PK of pyrethroids is 
an important determination of their toxicity because the concentration 
of pyrethroid at the sodium channel relates to the extent of toxicity; 
greater pyrethroid concentration translates as increased neurotoxicity. 
Age-dependent PK differences have been identified for several 
pyrethroids (i.e., there are differences in the ability of adults and 
juveniles to metabolize pyrethroids). The enzymes that metabolize and 
detoxify pyrethroids are present in rats and humans at birth, and as a 
result, both juveniles and adults are able to tolerate low doses of 
pyrethroids when the internal dose, or the amount of pyrethroid at the 
sodium channel, is low. However, the activity of these enzymes 
increases with age, conveying in adults a greater capacity to detoxify 
pyrethroids compared to juveniles and the PK contribution to the FQPA 
Safety Factor will be 1X for adults and children >6 years old, and 3X 
for children 
chronic exposure to deltamethrin.
    Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the 
adverse effects caused by deltamethrin as well

[[Page 16298]]

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 Deltamethrin. Human 
Health Risk Assessment for the Proposed Use of Deltamethrin as a 
Mosquito Adulticide over Agricultural Crops at [page 55] in docket ID 
number EPA-HQ-OPP-20[14]-[0209].

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://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm.
    A summary of the toxicological endpoints for deltamethrin used for 
human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III.B of the final rule 
published in the Federal Register of [November 7, 2014] ([79] FR 
[66294]) (FRL-9918-24).

C. Exposure Assessment

    1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary 
exposure to deltamethrin, EPA considered exposure under the petitioned-
for tolerance as well as all existing deltamethrin tolerances in 40 CFR 
180.435. Acute and chronic dietary (food and drinking water) exposure 
assessments were conducted using the Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model 
software with the Food Commodity Intake Database (DEEM-FCID) Version 
3.16. This software uses 2003-2008 food consumption data from the U.S. 
Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) National Health and Nutrition 
Examination Survey, What We Eat in America, (NHANES/WWEIA). Specific 
information on the dietary exposure assessment can be found at http://www.regulations.gov in document Deltamethrin. Acute and Chronic Dietary 
(Food and Drinking Water) Exposure and Risk Assessment for the Proposed 
Use of Deltamethrin as a Wide Area Mosquito Adulticide over 
Agricultural Crops in docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-20[14]-[0209].
    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 deltamethrin. As to residue levels in food, EPA used tolerance-
level residues for most commodities and Pesticide Data Program (PDP) 
monitoring data for a number of commodities. Maximum percent crop 
treated (%CT) estimates were used for some commodities. To account for 
the mosquito adulticide use, the maximum residue value from the 
mosquito adulticide trials was multiplied by the %CT estimate for the 
adulticide use (1%) for those commodities that would only have a 
residue as a result of the mosquito adulticide use. However, if the 
commodity could have residues from both the agricultural and 
mosquitocide uses, residue values from the adulticide trials were 
included in a distribution considering the 1% CT estimate (depending on 
whether the commodities were blended, nonblended, or partially 
blended). Default processing factors were used for some processed 
commodities and empirical factors were used for others.
    ii. Chronic exposure. As to residue levels in food, EPA [used 
tolerance-level residues for most commodities. The average PDP value 
was used for cereal grains and milk. The average mosquito adulticide 
residue value multiplied by the 1% CT estimate was used to account for 
the mosquito adulticide uses. Since deltamethrin is registered for use 
in food handling establishments (FHEs), one-half the FHE tolerance was 
used to account for the FHE uses. The FHE tolerance is based on the 
LOQ, and one-half the tolerance was used as a refinement in the dietary 
assessment. For the commodities for which one-half the FHE tolerance 
was used, the assumption was made that there was a 4.65% chance that a 
food item consumed by a person contained deltamethrin residues as a 
result of treatment at some point in an FHE. Default processing factors 
were used for some processed commodities and empirical factors were 
used for others.
    The chronic assessment was conducted solely for the purpose of 
obtaining estimates of background levels of dietary exposure for 
estimating aggregate risk.
    iii. Cancer. Based on the data summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has 
concluded that deltamethrin does not pose a cancer risk to humans. 
Therefore, a dietary exposure assessment for the purpose of assessing 
cancer risk is unnecessary.
    iv. Anticipated residue and percent crop treated (PCT) information.
    Section 408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA to use available data 
and information on the anticipated residue levels of pesticide residues 
in food and the actual levels of pesticide residues that have been 
measured in food. If EPA relies on such information, EPA must require 
pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1) that data be provided 5 years after 
the tolerance is established, modified, or left in effect, 
demonstrating that the levels in food are not above the levels 
anticipated. For the present action, EPA will issue such data call-ins 
as are required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E) and authorized under 
FFDCA section 408(f)(1). Data will be required to be submitted no later 
than 5 years from the date of issuance of these tolerances.
    Section 408(b)(2)(F) of FFDCA states that the Agency may use data 
on the actual percent of food treated for assessing chronic dietary 
risk only if:
     Condition a: The data used are reliable and provide a 
valid basis to show what percentage of the food derived from such crop 
is likely to contain the pesticide residue.
     Condition b: The exposure estimate does not underestimate 
exposure for any significant subpopulation group.
     Condition c: Data are available on pesticide use and food 
consumption in a particular area, the exposure estimate does not 
understate exposure for the population in such area.
    In addition, the Agency must provide for periodic evaluation of any 
estimates used. To provide for the periodic evaluation of the estimate 
of PCT as required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(F), EPA may require 
registrants to submit data on PCT.
    The Agency estimated the PCT for existing uses as follows: For 
acute dietary: 2.5% for apples, cantaloupes, carrots, soybeans, 
tomatoes, and watermelons; and 5% for cucumbers and pears. For chronic 
dietary: 1% for

[[Page 16299]]

apples, cantaloupes, carrots, cotton, potatoes (some food forms), 
pumpkins, radishes, squash, tomatoes, turnips, and watermelon; 2.5% for 
cucumbers, leeks, onions, pears, and sunflowers; 4.65% (commodities 
with residues resulting only from the FHE use) for: Almonds, 
pistachios, potatoes (some food forms), soybeans, sweet corn, and 
walnuts; 5% for canola and peppers; and 40% for globe artichokes.
    In the acute and chronic assessments, the mosquito adulticide %CT 
estimate of 1% was used to modify the mosquito adulticide use residue 
value. Residues from the mosquito adulticide use were included for all 
commodities with the exception of livestock commodities because the 
livestock commodities tolerances are very conservative, and any 
residues in livestock feed items resulting from the mosquito adulticide 
use will not increase the established tolerance levels.
    In most cases, EPA uses available data from United States 
Department of Agriculture/National Agricultural Statistics Service 
(USDA/NASS), proprietary market surveys, and the National Pesticide Use 
Database for the chemical/crop combination for the most recent 6-7 
years. EPA uses an average PCT for chronic dietary risk analysis. The 
average PCT figure for each existing use is derived by combining 
available public and private market survey data for that use, averaging 
across all observations, and rounding to the nearest 5%, except for 
those situations in which the average PCT is less than one. In those 
cases, 1% is used as the average PCT and 2.5% is used as the maximum 
PCT. EPA uses a maximum PCT for acute dietary risk analysis. The 
maximum PCT figure is the highest observed maximum value reported 
within the recent 6 years of available public and private market survey 
data for the existing use and rounded up to the nearest multiple of 5%.
    The Agency believes that the three conditions discussed in Unit 
III.C.1.iv. have been met. With respect to Condition a, PCT estimates 
are derived from Federal and private market survey data, which are 
reliable and have a valid basis. The Agency is reasonably certain that 
the percentage of the food treated is not likely to be an 
underestimation. As to Conditions b and c, regional consumption 
information and consumption information for significant subpopulations 
is taken into account through EPA's computer-based model for evaluating 
the exposure of significant subpopulations including several regional 
groups. Use of this consumption information in EPA's risk assessment 
process ensures that EPA's exposure estimate does not understate 
exposure for any significant subpopulation group and allows the Agency 
to be reasonably certain that no regional population is exposed to 
residue levels higher than those estimated by the Agency. Other than 
the data available through national food consumption surveys, EPA does 
not have available reliable information on the regional consumption of 
food to which deltamethrin may be applied in a particular area.
    2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening 
level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk 
assessment for deltamethrin in drinking water. These simulation models 
take into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/transport 
characteristics of deltamethrin. Further information regarding EPA 
drinking water models used in pesticide exposure assessment can be 
found at http://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/models/water/index.htm.
    The estimated drinking water concentration (EDWC) of deltamethrin 
for acute and chronic exposures is estimated to be 0.200 parts per 
billion (ppb) for both surface water and ground water. The FIRST Model 
was used to determine the surface water concentration, and the SCI-GROW 
Model was used to determine the groundwater concentration. The acute 
surface water EDWC and the groundwater EDWC were equivalent because, in 
both cases, the value was limited by the solubility of deltamethrin.
    Modeled estimates of drinking water concentrations were directly 
entered into the dietary exposure model.
    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).
    Deltamethrin is currently registered for the following uses that 
could result in residential exposures: Residential outdoor and indoor 
sites, turf, paint additives, and pet products.
    There are no residential handler exposure scenarios associated with 
the proposed mosquito control use as applications are to be made by 
Federal, State, Tribal or local Government Officials or the U.S. 
Military. However, there is potential for residential post-application 
exposure resulting from mosquito control use. Post-application 
inhalation exposures and incidental oral (hand-to-mouth) contact with 
residues deposited on lawn/turf from ULV truck fogger applications were 
included in the quantitative risk assessment. To calculate post-
application exposure from ULV truck fogger applications, EPA used the 
2012 Residential SOPs for Outdoor Fogging/Misting Systems, with minimal 
modification to the well-mixed box (WMB) model. The WMB model allows 
for the estimation of inhalation exposure in the breathing zones of 
adults and children residing in areas being treated by ground 
application of deltamethrin.
    EPA also assessed handler and post-application exposures for 
existing residential uses of deltamethrin (i.e., indoor, outdoor, pet, 
and paint additive). A quantitative dermal assessment for residential 
handlers was not conducted since no systemic toxicity associated with 
dermal exposure to deltamethrin was observed. MOEs were calculated for 
the inhalation route of exposure only. Adult post-application exposures 
from the existing uses were not quantitatively assessed since 
inhalation exposures are typically negligible in outdoor settings. 
Post-application inhalation exposure for adults and children is 
anticipated to be negligible for representative residential registered 
uses; therefore, a quantitative post-application inhalation exposure 
assessment was not performed. EPA assessed post-application incidental 
oral exposures to children for representative indoor/outdoor and pet 
incidental oral scenarios including hand-to-mouth, object-to-mouth, 
soil ingestion, and episodic granule ingestion scenarios.
    Further information regarding EPA standard assumptions and generic 
inputs for residential exposures may be found at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/trac/science/trac6a05.pdf.
    4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of 
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when 
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the 
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative 
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances 
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
    The Agency has determined that the pyrethroids and pyrethrins share 
a common mechanism of toxicity: the ability to interact with voltage-
gated sodium channels ultimately leading to neurotoxicity. The 
cumulative risk assessment (CRA) for the pyrethroids/pyrethrins 
(published on 11/9/2011 and available at http://www.regulations.gov; 
EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0746) did not identify cumulative risks of concern, 
allowing the Agency to consider new uses for pyrethroids. Deltamethrin 
was

[[Page 16300]]

included in the pyrethroid/pyrethrin CRA.
    Dietary exposures make a minor contribution to the total pyrethroid 
exposure. The dietary exposure assessment performed in support of the 
pyrethroid CRA was much more highly refined than that performed for 
deltamethrin alone. Additionally, the PODs selected for deltamethrin 
are specific to deltamethrin, whereas the PODs selected for the 
cumulative assessment were based on common mechanism of action data 
that are appropriate for all 20 pyrethroids included in the CRA. 
Dietary exposure to deltamethrin residues resulting from the proposed 
wide-area mosquito adulticide use will contribute very little to the 
dietary exposure to deltamethrin alone and will have an insignificant 
impact on the cumulative risk assessment. No dietary, residential, or 
aggregate risk estimates of concern have been identified in the single 
chemical assessment.
    In the cumulative assessment, residential exposure was the greatest 
contributor to the total exposure. In order to determine if the 
registered deltamethrin indoor and turf uses will significantly 
contribute to, or change the overall findings in the pyrethroid CRA, 
the Agency performed a quantitative exposure and risk assessment. This 
assessment used the deltamethrin relative potency factor (RPF) as well 
as the same exposure algorithms and inputs that were used in the 2011 
pyrethroid CRA. In all cases, the estimated deltamethrin MOEs using the 
RPF method were higher (i.e., less of a risk concern) than those used 
in the 2011 pyrethroid CRA. Thus, the Agency continues to support the 
previous assessment, and concludes that the registered deltamethrin 
uses will not significantly contribute to the overall findings in the 
2011 pyrethroid CRA, and the registered deltamethrin indoor and turf 
uses will have no impact on the residential component of the cumulative 
risk estimates.
    For information regarding EPA's efforts to evaluate the risk of 
exposure to this class of chemicals, refer to: - http://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/reevaluation/pyrethroids-pyrethrins.html.

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. There were no indications of 
fetal toxicity in any of the guideline studies. Evidence of increased 
juvenile qualitative sensitivity was observed in the DNT and 2-
generation reproduction studies at doses that were considered to be 
relatively high (i.e., near lethal doses). However, at doses near the 
point of departure, no effects on parental animals or offspring were 
observed in either the DNT or 2-generation reproduction study and, 
therefore, there is no susceptibility at these doses.
    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 3X for infants and children 6 years old, women of child bearing age and all 
adult populations. That decision is based on the following findings:
    i. The database of experimental toxicology studies available for 
deltamethrin is largely complete including developmental toxicity 
studies in rats and rabbits, a reproduction study in rats, and acute 
neurotoxicity (ACN), subchronic neurotoxicity (SCN), and developmental 
neurotoxicity (DNT) studies. The database provides a robust 
characterization profile for children 6 years old and older, as well as 
for adults. In addition to the standard guideline studies, numerous 
studies from the scientific literature that describe the 
pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile of the pyrethroids in 
general have been considered in this assessment. Many of these studies 
were conducted with deltamethrin. A 28- or 90-day inhalation study is 
not available, but the Agency determined the study is not required for 
deltamethrin.
    ii. As with other pyrethroids, deltamethrin causes neurotoxicity 
from interaction with sodium channels leading to clinical signs of 
neurotoxicity. These effects are well characterized and adequately 
assessed by the body of data available to the Agency.
    iii. There were no indications of fetal toxicity in any of the 
guideline studies in the database, including developmental studies in 
the rat and rabbit, a developmental neurotoxicity study in rats, and a 
2-generation reproduction study in rats. There was evidence of 
increased juvenile qualitative susceptibility at high doses observed in 
both the DNT and 2-generation reproduction studies. These observations 
are consistent with the findings of juvenile sensitivity in the 
literature for deltamethrin. However, the observations of increased 
sensitivity were at doses that were considered to be relatively high 
(i.e., near lethal doses), whereas at doses near the point of 
departure, no effects on parental animals or offspring were observed in 
either the developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) or 2-generation 
reproduction study and, therefore, there is no susceptibility at these 
doses. The Agency has retained a 3X uncertainty factor to protect for 
exposures of children =6 
years of age, based on the absence of pre-natal sensitivity observed in 
76 guideline studies for 24 pyrethroids and the scientific literature. 
Additionally, no evidence of increased quantitative or qualitative 
susceptibility was seen in the pyrethroid scientific literature related 
to pharmacodynamics.
    iv. There are no residual uncertainties with regard to dietary 
exposure. The dietary exposure assessments are based on high-end 
residue levels for most commodities, and that account for parent and 
metabolites of concern, processing factors, and percent crop treated 
assumptions. Furthermore, conservative, upper-bound assumptions were 
used to determine exposure through drinking water and residential 
sources, such that these exposures have not been underestimated.

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-,

[[Page 16301]]

intermediate-, and chronic-term risks are evaluated by comparing the 
estimated aggregate food, water, and residential exposure to the 
appropriate PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE exists.
    1. Acute risk. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this 
unit for acute exposure, the acute dietary exposure from food and water 
to deltamethrin will occupy 81% of the aPAD for children 1-2 years old, 
the population group receiving the greatest exposure.
    2. Chronic risk. A chronic dietary risk assessment was not 
conducted because there is no apparent increase in hazard from 
repeated/chronic exposures to deltamethrin. Therefore, the acute 
endpoint is protective of the endpoints from repeat dosing studies. A 
chronic dietary exposure assessment was performed in order to generate 
background exposure estimates to aggregate with residential exposure 
estimates for the short-term aggregate risk assessment.
    3. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into 
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food 
and water (considered to be a background exposure level). Deltamethrin 
is currently registered for uses that could result in short-term 
residential exposure, and the Agency has determined that it is 
appropriate to aggregate chronic exposure through food and water with 
short-term residential exposures to deltamethrin.
    Using the exposure assumptions described in this unit for short-
term exposures, EPA has concluded the combined short-term food, water, 
and residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 2,500 for the 
general U.S. population and of 520 for children 1-2 years old, the 
population group receiving the greatest exposure. Because EPA's level 
of concern for deltamethrin is an MOE of 300 or below, these MOEs are 
not of concern.
    4. Intermediate-term risk. Because no intermediate-term adverse 
effect was identified, deltamethrin is not expected to pose an 
intermediate-term risk.
    5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on the lack of 
evidence of carcinogenicity in two adequate rodent carcinogenicity 
studies, deltamethrin is not expected to pose a cancer risk to humans.
    6. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA 
concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result 
to the general population, or to infants and children from aggregate 
exposure to deltamethrin residues.

IV. Other Considerations

A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    Adequate enforcement methodology utilizing gas chromatography with 
electron capture detection (GC/ECD), is available for enforcing 
tolerances for residues of deltamethrin in plant commodities, as 
described in Pesticide Analytical Manual (PAM) Volume II, Section 
180.422. Another GC/ECD method (Method HRAV-22) is available for 
enforcing tolerances in livestock commodities. Adequate confirmatory 
method validation data have been submitted for these methods, along 
with adequate independent laboratory validation (ILV) trials.
    Multiresidue methods data for cis-deltamethrin and trans-
deltamethrin were previously sent to FDA. Cis-deltamethrin is 
completely recovered through Methods 302 and 303, and partially 
recovered through Method 304. Trans-Deltamethrin is partially recovered 
through Method 303, but not recovered through Method 304.

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.
    Harmonization of MRLs is not an issue for the proposed use of 
deltamethrin as a wide area mosquitocide since established tolerance 
levels are not changing.

C. Response to Comments

    An anonymous citizen objected to the approval of the requested 
tolerance for deltamethrin. The commenter expressed concerns about the 
neurotoxicity of the chemical and made unsubstantiated claims that 
together with all other approved toxic chemicals, use of deltamethrin 
could lead to many deaths and injuries and that the Agency is harming 
the American people. Under section 408 of the Federal Food, Drug and 
Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) EPA is authorized to establish pesticide 
tolerances where the safety standard imposed by that statute is met. 
When new or amended tolerances for residues of a pesticide in food or 
feed are requested, the Agency evaluates whether there is a reasonable 
certainty of no harm from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical 
residue. The risk assessment conducted by the Agency considers the 
potential risks from dietary exposure and other non-occupational 
exposures. The Agency also considers the available information 
regarding cumulative toxicological effects of the pesticide residues 
and other substances that share a common mechanism of toxicity with the 
subject pesticide. Such an assessment has been conducted for 
deltamethrin. Deltamethrin is a Type II pyrethroid, and as with other 
pyrethroids, deltamethrin causes neurotoxicity. These effects are well 
characterized and adequately assessed by the body of data available to 
the Agency. The Agency is confident that it has chosen endpoints, 
points of departure, and uncertainty factors, that have a strong 
scientific foundation and that are protective for all human 
populations. As a result, EPA concludes that the tolerances for 
deltamethrin are safe.

V. Conclusion

    Therefore, tolerances are established for residues of deltamethrin, 
(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid 
(S)-alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl ester and its major metabolites, trans-
deltamethrin (S)-alpha-cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl-(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-
dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and alpha-R-
deltamethrin[(R)-alpha-cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl-(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-
dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate in or on all food/
feed items (other than those covered by a higher tolerance as a result 
of use on growing crops) from use as a wide-area mosquito adulticide at 
0.05 ppm.
    Currently, a tolerance of 0.05 ppm is established for residues of 
deltamethrin in or on all food/feed items (other than those covered by 
a higher tolerance as a result of use on growing crops) in food/feed 
handling establishments. The tolerance level does not need to be 
increased for the proposed use as a mosquito adulticide; however, EPA 
is revising 40 CFR 180.435 to clarify the tolerance. In addition, EPA 
is removing subparagraphs (a)(2)(i), (ii), (A) and (B) as they contain 
language that is more

[[Page 16302]]

appropriately enforced under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and 
Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) as use directions on the label.

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). This action does not contain any 
information collections subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does it require any 
special considerations under Executive Order 12898, entitled ``Federal 
Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and 
Low-Income Populations'' (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
    Since tolerances and exemptions that are established 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: March 18, 2015.
Susan Lewis,
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.  180.435, paragraph (a)(2) is revised to read as:

Sec.  180.435  Deltamethrin; tolerances for residues.

    (a) General. * * *
* * * * *
    (2) A tolerance of 0.05 ppm is established for residues of the 
insecticide deltamethrin, including its metabolites and degradates, in 
or on all food/feed items (other than those covered by a higher 
tolerance as a result of use on growing crops) when deltamethrin is 
used in food/feed handling establishments or as a wide-area mosquito 
adulticide. Compliance with the tolerance levels specified is to be 
determined by measuring only deltamethrin, (1R,3R)-3-(2,2-
dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid (S)-alpha-cyano-
3-phenoxybenzyl ester, and its major metabolites, trans-deltamethrin, 
(S)-alpha-cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-
dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate, and alpha-R-deltamethrin, (R)-alpha-
cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl-(1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-
dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate, in or on the commodity.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2015-06861 Filed 3-26-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
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