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House panel votes on methyl bromide measure
Story Date: 7/25/2012
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Source: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE DEPTS. OF AGRICULTURE, 7/24/12
The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power approved the U.S. Agricultural Sector Relief Act 2012 last week by a partisan vote of 15-6. According to its supporters, the legislation would provide relief to farmers by directing the EPA Administrator to "seek a critical use exemption under the treaty for the full amount of methyl bromide necessary for approved critical uses."
Under the terms of the Montreal Protocol, the phase out methyl bromide was expected by 2005 because of the impact it has on the ozone layer. The protocol allowed for continued use of methyl bromide in limited circumstances. However, due to the lack of a cost efficient and effective alternative to the pesticide, more farmers are applying for Critical Use Exemptions (CUEs) in order to continue use of the product. The legislation will move to the full committee for mark up at a later date.
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