EPA Hands Secret Pesticide Recipes to Consultants, Yawn
Published Date: 10/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The EPA is giving the Eastern Research Group (ERG) access to secret pesticide info to help them with a new contract. This info includes business secrets and will be shared by October 13, 2026. Anyone interested should know this move helps EPA get expert help without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Contractor Support for Enforcement Activities
Under solicitation number 68HERL26A0022, ERG will assist EPA offices with enforcement program implementation, enforcement case development, supporting inspections, sampling, laboratory services, and analysis. ERG's access to submitted information is described as necessary for carrying out these enforcement-related tasks.
Contractor Given Access to Pesticide CBI
The Eastern Research Group (ERG) will be given access to pesticide-related information submitted to EPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) on or before October 13, 2026. Some of the information may be claimed or determined to be Confidential Business Information (CBI).
Time-Limited Access Through June 27, 2031
EPA will allow ERG access to FIFRA and FFDCA data, including CBI, through June 27, 2031, and that access will continue for the duration of any contract extension without further notice. The initial access will begin on or before October 13, 2026.
CBI Protections and Nondisclosure Requirements
EPA requires ERG personnel to sign nondisclosure agreements, be briefed on security procedures, follow the FIFRA CBI Protection Manual, and return all supplied information when work is complete. The contract prohibits disclosure to third parties without prior written EPA approval, and EPA project officers will maintain records of information provided to ERG.
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Key Dates
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