Advocacy Update - EPA Registration of Neonicotinoids

We appreciate the help of everyone who submitted comments to the EPA on the Petition Seeking Rulemaking for Registration of Neonicotinoid Insecticides and Other Systemic Insecticides (EPA-HQ-OPP-2023-0428), urging the EPA to amend its regulations under the Federal Insecticide, Rodenticide, and Fungicide Act accordingly.  This amendment would mandate that all neonicotinoid and systemic insecticide applicants and registrants submit comprehensive efficacy data during registration applications and reviews.  Mounting evidence suggests these chemicals, particularly as seed treatments, are harming grassland and insectivorous bird populations, polluting waterways, harming beneficial insects like honey bees, and threatening ecosystems.  It's alarming that these potent insecticides were initially registered without efficacy data, and recent studies question their necessity for seed treatment.  Thousands of comments were submitted, overwhelmingly requesting the EPA to address this regulatory gap and adopt the proposed amendment to protect the environment and agricultural sustainability.  Read our comments letter here and the full collection of comments here.