[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 27 (Wednesday, February 10, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 7032-7037]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-02569]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 180

[EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0232; FRL-9941-15]


Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) Ethers, 
Disodium Salts; 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 poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-
carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-
C16) ethers, disodium salts with a polyoxyethylene (POE) 
content averaging 5-15 moles, specifically CAS Reg. Nos. 68815-56-5, 
68954-91-6, 1013906-64-3, and 1024612-24-5, when used as inert 
ingredients (surfactants) in pesticide formulations applied to crops at 
a concentration not to exceed 10% by weight under 40 CFR 180.910. 
Keller and Heckman LLP on behalf of Cytec Industries, Inc., submitted a 
petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), 
requesting the establishment of exemptions from the requirement of a 
tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum 
permissible level for residues of these poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), 
[alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl 
(C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts.

DATES: This regulation is effective February 10, 2016. Objections and 
requests for hearings must be received on or before April 11, 2016, 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-2015-0232, 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

[[Page 7033]]

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: [email protected].

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 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-2015-0232 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 
April 11, 2016. 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-2015-0232, 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. Petition for Exemption

    In the Federal Register of May 20, 2015 (80 FR 28925) (FRL-9927-
39), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C. 
346a, announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP IN-10759) by 
Keller and Heckman LLP, 1001 G Street NW., Suite 500 West, Washington, 
DC 20001 on behalf of Cytec Industries, Inc., 5 Garret Mountain Plaza, 
Woodland Park, NJ 07424. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.910 be 
amended by establishing an exemption from the requirement of a 
tolerance for residues of poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-
1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, (C10-C16) 
alkylethers, disodium salts with a polyoxyethylene (POE) content 
averaging 5-15 specifically poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-
carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, C10-12-alkyl 
ethers, disodium salts, the poly(oxyethylene) content averages 5-15 
moles (CAS Reg. No. 68954-91-6); poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-
carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, C10-16-alkyl 
ethers, disodium salts, the poly(oxyethylene) content averages 5-15 
moles (CAS Reg, No. 68815-56-5); poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-
carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, C12-14-alkyl 
ethers, disodium salts, the poly(oxyethylene) content averages 5-15 
moles (CAS Reg. No. 1024612-24-5); and poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), 
[alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-(isotridecyloxy)-, sodium 
salt (1:2), the poly(oxyethylene) content averages 5-15 moles (CAS Reg. 
No. 1013906-64-3) when used as an inert ingredient (surfactant) in 
pesticide formulations applied to growing crops and raw agricultural 
commodities at a concentration not to exceed 10% by weight. That 
document referenced a summary of the petition prepared by Keller and 
Heckman LLP, on behalf of Cytec Industries, Inc., the petitioner, which 
is available in the docket, http://www.regulations.gov. Comments were 
not received on the notice of filing.

III. Inert Ingredient Definition

    Inert ingredients are all ingredients that are not active 
ingredients as defined in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are not 
limited to, the following types of ingredients (except when they have a 
pesticidal efficacy of their own): Solvents such as alcohols and 
hydrocarbons; surfactants such as polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty 
acids; carriers such as clay and diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as 
carrageenan and modified cellulose; wetting, spreading, and dispersing 
agents; propellants in aerosol dispensers; microencapsulating agents; 
and emulsifiers. The term ``inert'' is not intended to imply 
nontoxicity; the ingredient may or may not be chemically active. 
Generally, EPA has exempted inert ingredients from the requirement of a 
tolerance based on the low toxicity of the individual inert 
ingredients.

IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety

    Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of 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) 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 aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical 
residue. . . .''

[[Page 7034]]

    EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only 
in those cases where it can be clearly demonstrated that the risks from 
aggregate exposure to pesticide chemical residues under reasonably 
foreseeable circumstances will pose no appreciable risks to human 
health. In order to determine the risks from aggregate exposure to 
pesticide inert ingredients, the Agency considers the toxicity of the 
inert in conjunction with possible exposure to residues of the inert 
ingredient through food, drinking water, and through other exposures 
that occur as a result of pesticide use in residential settings. If EPA 
is able to determine that a finite tolerance is not necessary to ensure 
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from 
aggregate exposure to the inert ingredient, an exemption from the 
requirement of a tolerance may be established.
    Consistent with FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(A), and the factors 
specified in FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), 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 poly(oxy-1,2- ethanediyl), 
[alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl ethers, 
disodium salts including exposure resulting from the exemption 
established by this action. EPA's assessment of exposures and risks 
associated with poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl ethers, disodium salts follows.

A. Toxicological Profile

    EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered their 
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. Specific information on the studies received and the nature 
of the adverse effects caused by poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-
carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-
C16) ethers, disodium salts as well as the no-observed-
adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the lowest-observed-adverse-effect-
level (LOAEL) from the toxicity studies are discussed in this unit.
    The acute oral and dermal toxicity in rats are low for poly(oxy-
1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]- (3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-
, -alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts. They 
are not irritating to the eyes and moderately irritating to the skin in 
rabbits. They are weak dermal sensitizers. Acute inhalation toxicity 
studies were not available.
    In subchronic toxicity studies, are available in rats and dogs. 
(CAS Reg No. 68815-56-5) was administered via the diet in both studies 
and similar effects are seen in both. Bodyweight decreases are seen in 
dogs at 565 milligrams/kilogram/day (mg/kg/day) and in rats at 4% 
(equivalent to 3,519 mg/kg/day, lowest observed adverse effect level 
(LOAEL)). Decreased feed efficiency is also observed at this dose in 
rats. The NOAELs are 140 mg/kg/day and 1% (equivalent to 770 mg/kg/day) 
in dogs and rats, respectively. The chronic reference dose (cRfD) is 
based on the 90-day oral toxicity study in dogs.
    The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) 
421 Reproduction/Developmental Toxicity Screening Test, ``secondary 
alcohol ethoxylate'', shows that parental, offspring and reproduction 
toxicity occur at 470 mg/kg/day. Maternal toxicity is manifested as 
decreased body weight and body weight gain, decreased food consumption, 
and clinical signs (ptosis and hypoactivity); offspring toxicity is 
manifested as decreased litter size, increased post-implantation loss, 
and microscopic changes of the testes and epididymides; and 
reproduction toxicity is manifested as a slightly increased incidence 
of microscopic changes of the testes and epididymides (testicular 
atrophy, increased intraluminal exfoliated spermatogenic cells in 
epididymides, and dilated seminiferous tubules). The parental, 
offspring and reproduction NOAELs are 168 mg/kg/day. Although fetal 
qualitative susceptibility is observed in this study, concern is low 
because it occurs only in the presence of maternal toxicity. Also, the 
cRfD is protective of these effects.
    Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, 
disodium salts are not expected to be carcinogenic based on the lack of 
structural alerts for carcinogenicity in the Derek Nexus analysis. 
Also, they are not mutagenic based on the Ames and chromosomal 
aberration tests.
    Neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity studies are not available for 
review. However, evidence of neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity is not 
observed in the submitted studies.
    Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, 
disodium salts are expected to be metabolized similar to alkyl alcohol 
alkoxylates. These metabolites are expected to be further metabolized 
through degradation of the ether linkage resulting in the corresponding 
alkyl alcohol and polyalkoxylate group which would undergo further 
oxidative degradation and/or excretion. Excreted materials are mainly 
lower molecular weight POE-like compounds, carbon dioxide and water. 
Longer alkyl chain lengths are excreted at a higher proportion into 
expired air and less in urine and longer POE chain lengths lead to more 
being excreted via the feces and expired air.

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.
    An acute effect was not found in the database therefore an acute 
dietary assessment is not necessary. The 90-day oral toxicity study in 
dogs was selected for the chronic exposure for this risk assessment. 
The NOAEL in this study was 140 mg/kg/day. The LOAEL was 565 mg/kg/day 
based on decreased bodyweight. This study represents the lowest NOAEL 
in the database in the most sensitive species. The dermal and 
inhalation absorption rates were assumed to be 100%. The standard 
inter- and intra- species uncertainty factors were applied. The FQPA 
safety factor of 10X was reduced to 1X.

[[Page 7035]]

C. Exposure Assessment

    1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary 
exposure to poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts, EPA considered exposure under the proposed 
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. EPA assessed dietary 
exposures from poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts in food as follows:
    Dietary exposure (food and drinking water) to poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3- carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts can occur 
following ingestion of foods with residues from treated crops. Because 
no adverse effects attributable to a single exposure of poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts are seen 
in the toxicity databases, an acute dietary risk assessment is not 
necessary. For the chronic dietary risk assessment, EPA used the 
Dietary Exposure Evaluation Model software with the Food Commodity 
Intake Database (DEEM-FCIDTM, Version 3.16, and food 
consumption information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 
(USDA's) 2003-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 
What We Eat in America (NHANES/WWEIA). One hundred percent crop treated 
was assumed, default processing factors, and tolerance-level residues 
for all foods and use limitations of not more than 10% by weight in 
pesticide formulations.
    2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. For the purpose of the 
screening-level dietary risk assessment to support this request for an 
exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts, a 
conservative drinking water concentration value of 100 ppb based on 
screening-level modeling was used to assess the contribution to 
drinking water for the chronic dietary risk assessments for parent 
compound. These values 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., textiles (clothing and diapers), carpets, swimming 
pools, and hard surface disinfection on walls, floors, tables).
    Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, 
disodium salts may be used in inert ingredients in products that are 
registered for specific uses that may result in residential exposure, 
such as pesticides used in and round the home, personal (care) 
products, and cosmetics. The Agency conducted an assessment to 
represent worst-case residential exposure by assessing poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts in 
pesticideformulations (outdoor scenarios) and in disinfectant-type uses 
(indoor scenarios).
    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.''
    EPA has not found poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts to share a common mechanism of toxicity with any 
other substances, and poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts do not appear to produce a toxic metabolite 
produced by other substances. For the purposes of this tolerance 
action, therefore, EPA has assumed that poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), 
[alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl 
(C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts do not have 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 EPA's Web site at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.

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. The toxicity database for 
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-
hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts 
contains two subchronic studies, a reproduction/developmental toxicity 
screening study, and mutagenicity studies. There is no indication of 
neurotoxicity or immunotoxicity in the available studies; therefore, 
there is no need to require neurotoxicity or immunotoxicity studies. 
Qualitative fetal susceptibility was observed in the 2-generation 
toxicity study in rats. However, concern for fetal effects are low 
since they only occurred in the presence of maternal toxicity and 
protecting against maternal toxicity will subsequently prevent fetal 
toxicity. In addition, the cRfD, 1.40 mg/kg/day, will be protective of 
fetal effects. In addition, the Agency used conservative exposure 
estimates, with 100 percent crop treated, tolerance-level residues, 
conservative drinking water modeling numbers, and a worst-case 
assessment of potential residential exposure for infants and children. 
Therefore, the FQPA SF of 10X is reduced to 1X.

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-, 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. An acute aggregate risk assessment takes into 
account acute exposure estimates from dietary consumption of food and 
drinking water. No adverse effect resulting from a single oral exposure 
was identified and no acute dietary endpoint was selected. Therefore, 
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-
hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts 
is not expected to pose an acute risk.
    2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this 
unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that chronic exposure to, 
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-
hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts 
from food and water will utilize 10.3% of the

[[Page 7036]]

cPAD for children 1 to 2 years old, the population group receiving the 
greatest exposure.
    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).
    Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl(C10-C16) ethers, disodium 
salts may be used as inert ingredients in pesticide products 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 poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts. Using the 
exposure assumptions described above, EPA has concluded that the 
combined short-term aggregated food, water, and residential exposures 
result in MOEs of 151 for both adult males and females respectively. 
Adult residential exposure combines high-end dermal and inhalation 
handler exposure from indoor hard surface, wiping with a high-end post 
application dermal exposure from contact with treated lawns. As the 
level of concern is for MOEs that are lower than 100, this MOE is not 
of concern. EPA has concluded the combined short-term aggregated food, 
water, and residential exposures result in an aggregate MOE of 430 for 
children. Children's residential exposure includes total exposures 
associated with contact with treated lawns (dermal and hand-to-mouth 
exposures). As the level of concern is for MOEs that are lower than 
100, this MOEs is not of concern.
    4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure 
takes into account intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic 
exposure to food and water (considered to be a background exposure 
level).
    Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-
[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, 
disodium salts may be used as inert ingredients in pesticide products 
that could result in intermediate-term residential exposure and the 
Agency has determined that it is appropriate to aggregate chronic 
exposure through food and water with intermediate-term residential 
exposures to poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts. Using the exposure assumptions described above, 
EPA has concluded that the combined intermediate-term aggregated food, 
water, and residential exposures result in aggregate MOEs of 1637 for 
adult males and females. Adult residential exposure combines Indoor 
hard surface, wiping with a high end post application dermal exposure 
from contact with treated lawns. As the level of concern is for MOEs 
that are lower than 100, this MOE is not of concern. EPA has concluded 
the combined intermediate-term aggregated food, water, and residential 
exposures result in an aggregate MOE of 597 for children. Children's 
residential exposure includes total exposures associated with contact 
with treated surfaces (dermal and hand-to-mouth exposures). As the 
level of concern is for MOEs that are lower than 100, this MOE is not 
of concern.
    5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on a DEREK 
structural alert analysis and the lack of mutagenicity, poly(oxy-1,2-
ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, 
alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts are 
considered 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 poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts residues.

V. Other Considerations

Analytical Enforcement Methodology

    An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since 
the Agency is not establishing a numerical tolerance for residues of 
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-
hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts 
in or on any food commodities. EPA is establishing a limitation on the 
amount of poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-
oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl (C10-C16) 
ethers, disodium salts that may be used in pesticide formulations 
applied to growing crops. That limitation will be enforced through the 
pesticide registration process under the Federal Insecticide, 
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), 7 U.S.C. 136 et seq. EPA will 
not register any pesticide formulation for use on growing crops for 
sale or distribution that exceed 10% of poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), 
[alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-hydroxy-, alkyl 
(C10-C16) ethers, disodium salts.

VI. Conclusions

    Therefore, an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is 
established under 40 CFR 180.910 for the following when used as inert 
ingredients (surfactants) in pesticide products at a concentration not 
to exceed 10% in the end-use formulation.

VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    This action establishes exemptions to the requirement for a 
tolerance 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 exemptions 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

[[Page 7037]]

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).

VIII. 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: January 19, 2016.
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.  180.910, add alphabetically the following inert 
ingredient(s) to the table to read as follows:


Sec.  180.910  Inert ingredients used pre- and post-harvest; exemptions 
from the requirement of a tolerance.

* * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Inert ingredients               Limits               Uses
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl),        Not to exceed 10%  Surfactant.
 [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-            by weight of
 oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-         pesticide
 hydroxy-, C10-12-alkyl ethers,   formulation.
 disodium salts, the
 poly(oxyethylene) content
 averages 5-15 moles (CAS Reg.
 No. 68954-91-6).
 
                              * * * * * * *
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl),        Not to exceed 10%  Surfactant.
 [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-            by weight of
 oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-         pesticide
 hydroxy-, C10-16-alkyl ethers,   formulation.
 disodium salts, the
 poly(oxyethylene) content
 averages 5-15 moles (CAS Reg,
 No. 68815-56-5).
 
                              * * * * * * *
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl),        Not to exceed 10%  Surfactant.
 [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-            by weight of
 oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-         pesticide
 hydroxy-, C12-14-alkyl ethers,   formulation.
 disodium salts, the
 poly(oxyethylene) content
 averages 5-15 moles (CAS Reg.
 No. 1024612-24-5).
 
                              * * * * * * *
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl),        Not to exceed 10%  Surfactant.
 [alpha]-(3-carboxy-1-            by weight of
 oxosulfopropyl)-[omega]-         pesticide
 (isotridecyloxy)-, sodium salt   formulation.
 (1:2), the poly(oxyethylene)
 content averages 5-15 moles
 (CAS Reg. No. 1013906-64-3).
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2016-02569 Filed 2-9-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6560-50-P