Federal Register #EPA-HQ-OPP-2024-0308

EPA grants tolerance exemption for Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain AT-332; NMFS adjusts Pacific halibut fishery; Coast Guard establishes safety zone

This summary covers recent regulatory actions and operational adjustments by multiple U.S. government agencies: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): - Established an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain AT-332 (OEM: SDS Biotech K.K., petitioned by Gowan Company) on all food and feed commodities. - No maximum residue levels required when used according to label directions and good agricultural practices. - No procurement of products or services; this is a regulatory action. - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS): - Announced an inseason adjustment for the Pacific halibut non-Tribal directed commercial fishery in IPHC Area 2A. - Added a fishing period with a 5,000 lb catch limit per vessel to help achieve allocation targets. - U.S. Coast Guard: - Established a safety zone for explosive testing operations on the Rio Grande River near Boca Chica, TX. - Safety zone restricts entry unless authorized by the Captain of the Port or designated representative. - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - SDS Biotech K.K. (manufacturer of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain AT-332) - Gowan Company (petitioner) - Products/Services Requested: - Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain AT-332 (part number: 180.1425); regulatory exemption, not a procurement - Safety zone enforcement for explosive testing operations - Inseason adjustment for Pacific halibut fishery - Unique/Notable Requirements: - EPA's exemption streamlines pesticide regulation for agricultural producers - NMFS adjustment provides additional fishing opportunity with strict catch limits - Coast Guard safety zone ensures public safety during explosive testing operations - **No purchase quantities, bids, or contract awards are associated with these actions; all are regulatory or operational in nature.

Description

This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain AT-332 in or on all food and feed commodities when used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices. The exemption eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of this pesticide. The petition for this exemption was submitted by Gowan Company in cooperation with SDS Biotech K.K. The rule is effective from September 15, 2026, and objections or requests for hearings must be received by November 16, 2026.

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