SENATE BILL REPORT

                           SJM 8018

    AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, MARCH 2, 1993

Brief Description:  Requesting amendment of the Delaney Clause of the federal food, drug, and cosmetic act.

SPONSORS: Senators M. Rasmussen, Loveland, Barr, Jesernig, Newhouse and Winsley

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators M. Rasmussen, Chairman; Loveland, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Barr, Bauer, Newhouse, and Snyder.

Staff:  John Stuhlmiller (786‑7446)

Hearing Dates: March 1, 1993; March 2, 1993

BACKGROUND:

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged with regulating pesticide residues in foods under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.  The EPA sets tolerances for pesticide residues in both raw food and processed foods.

In setting tolerances, the EPA is authorized to scientifically assess the amount of risk that a residue may pose and then set appropriate standards for raw food.  However, for setting tolerances in processed foods, the Delaney Clause prohibits any additive in food processing that may cause cancer in humans or animals, regardless of the actual risk level.

SUMMARY:

Congress and the President are asked to amend the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to incorporate a negligible risk standard for pesticide residues as additives in food processing.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill is needed to correct the "zero tolerance" issue.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Mark Wagoner, Gardena Alfalfa Seed Growers Association (pro); Mark Triplett, Washington Agribusiness Coalition (pro)