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EPA delays revised pesticide applicator rule for a year

The EPA has extended the timeline for implementation of the agency’s final pesticide applicators rule by one year.  Missouri Governor Eric Greitens, who met with EPA administrator Scott Pruitt to discuss the Certification and Training rule and other regulatory issues last month, calls the 12-month delay good for farmers. Greitens says he’s grateful for the new leadership at EPA and he’ll continue to work with the Trump administration “to curb regulations that are killing jobs and hurting (our) farmers.”

The CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, Dr. Barbara Glenn, says they support the improved final rule but extending the timeline will help states better work with EPA “partners” to ensure there is adequate training and compliance assistance.

The rule, formulated in the Obama administration, increases standards for all pesticide applicators.  Its implementation was previously delayed from early March to May 22nd.