The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it is initiating a process to cancel all products containing the pesticide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA or Dacthal). This follows an emergency suspension of the pesticide on August 6, 2024. The decision comes after AMVAC Chemical Corporation (AMVAC) expressed its intent to voluntarily cancel the remaining pesticide products containing DCPA in the United States and internationally.
“Today’s announcement is a critical step towards protecting unborn babies from the serious health risks of this dangerous pesticide,” said Michal Freedhoff, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “AMVAC’s decision to voluntarily and quickly cancel their DCPA registrations is a huge win for public health and will ensure pregnant women are no longer exposed to a chemical that could cause their babies to experience irreversible lifelong health problems.”
This emergency suspension marks the first time in nearly four decades that EPA has taken such action. The agency cited significant health risks posed by DCPA, particularly to unborn babies whose mothers may be unknowingly exposed. These risks include changes to fetal thyroid hormone levels, which are linked to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, and impaired motor skills later in life.
Under Section 6(f) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, registrants can cancel the registration of a pesticide product at any time. On August 29, 2024, EPA will publish a notice in the Federal Register inviting public comments on the voluntary cancellation. Following this period, EPA plans to issue a final cancellation order.
The emergency suspension prohibits any distribution, sale, shipping, or use of DCPA-containing products. EPA is collaborating with AMVAC on a return program for existing stocks of these products. AMVAC is developing a plan to identify existing stocks held by distributors, retailers, and end-users and coordinate an effective collection process.
For more information on this decision and answers to frequently asked questions about DCPA, visit the DCPA Questions and Answers webpage. Additional background can be found in the August 6, 2024 press release regarding Biden-Harris Administration efforts to assess and address risks associated with DCPA.
