Source: American Farm Bureau Federation news release
In a groundbreaking decision, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals has delivered a significant win for farmers, affirming that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must base its determinations on rigorous scientific evidence and adhere to the rule of law.
The court's ruling was unequivocal in asserting that the EPA had disregarded legal mandates when it revoked tolerances for chlorpyrifos, effectively prohibiting the use of this pesticide. This legal battle was not waged by farmers alone but by a coalition of agricultural organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, who contended that the EPA had turned a blind eye to compelling scientific data affirming the safety of chlorpyrifos.
Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, expressed the organization's gratitude for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals' recognition of the EPA's failure to comply with the law when it revoked chlorpyrifos. Duvall emphasized the unwavering commitment of farmers and ranchers to produce safe and wholesome food, underpinned by their reliance on science to make informed decisions regarding pest and insect management. The court's decision today sends a resounding message to the EPA: it, too, must prioritize sound scientific principles when formulating regulations.
This landmark ruling is not just a victory for farmers, but a triumph for evidence-based decision-making and the importance of adhering to the law. It underscores the significance of a robust scientific foundation in shaping agricultural and environmental policies, and serves as a beacon of hope for those who depend on science to make informed choices in the complex realm of farming.
To read the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling click here.