The agency proposed stronger standards for pesticide applicators that apply restricted-use pesticides. One stated goal is to ensure a consistent level of protection among states.

NPMA advises that states may have to alter their certification and training regulations, which, in almost every case, will also impact the use of general-use pesticides by PMPs. A 90-day public comment period will take place (go to regulations.gov and search for EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0183).

Citing work already in progress to protect the monarch butterfly, the EPA denied the Natural Resources Defense Council petition asking for an immediate review of glyphosate and its impact on the butterflies, and for measures to limit the herbicide's use such as banning it along highways and utility rights of way.

After 13 states sued the EPA over the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule that gives the agency jurisdiction over smaller waterways, a federal judge issued an injunction to block implementing the rule, but only in those 13 states.

NPMA believes that traditional practices of PMPs were not changed by WOTUS but they promise to continue to lobby against "expansive regulatory overreach" like this ruling. The association is also aggressively pushing for the Sensible Environmental Protection Act (www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1500), which would get rid of a duplicative permit program that regulates the discharge of pesticides and other chemicals into waterways.