Congress Passes PRIA 3

Posted by |17 September 2012

Congress recently passed the Pesticide Registration Improvement Extension Act of 2012 (PRIA III), which for the first time provides inert ingredient manufacturers and suppliers with a statutory timeline for approval decisions by the EPA.

PRIA 3 creates 10 new inert fee categories that will provide certainty, timelines, and reasonable fees. Also, the expansion of registration categories is expected to increase the efficiency of processing applications, which will ultimately improve the entire registration process.

“The passage of PRIA III highlights the ability of stakeholders across multiple industries and interests to work together towards improved processes that maintain a high level of protection for public health and the environment,” said Jay Vroom, president and CEO of CropLife America, in a statement. “The reauthorization of PRIA helps ensure a predictable and timely registration process for new crop protection products. CLA is pleased the crop protection industry can continue to operate with an effective and reliable registration process.”

Beginning in 2004, PRIA has significantly improved the predictability and speed of the pesticide registration process, as well as available funding for EPA’s review of existing registrations. PRIA requires applicants for pesticide registration actions to pay specific service fees, which support the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Program in processing pesticide registration requests.

“Credit for this bill is shared by the members of the PRIA Coalition who worked diligently and collaboratively to craft a well-balanced bill that meets the needs of the stakeholders and the public,” said Dr. Susan Ferenc, CPDA president in a statement. “CPDA worked tirelessly on Capitol Hill with the PRIA Coalition and our (non-governmental organization) partners to educate members and staff about the importance of this bill.”