OMAHA- Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, along with officials from 11 other states, urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to standardize farm chemical labeling. They aim to prevent state-by-state regulations, particularly opposing California’s push to label glyphosate, known as Roundup, as a carcinogen. The coalition of states argues that glyphosate has been deemed safe by the EPA for agricultural use and that conflicting labels could lead to logistical challenges and increased costs.

The attorney generals emphasize the necessity of glyphosate for effective and affordable weed control, citing EPA studies supporting its safety when used correctly. They fear different state regulations could increase farming costs and complicate compliance, ultimately harming the sector. Nebraska and Iowa officials argue that a consistent, national standard is needed to avoid these issues and to protect farmers from potential legal and financial repercussions.

Farmers and agricultural leaders, such as Sherry Vinton from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Kevin Ross, a past president of the National Corn Growers Association, support the call for a national rule. They highlight glyphosate's cost-effectiveness and critical role in farming, warning that alternatives are less effective and more expensive. Constituents insist that national regulations grounded in science are essential to maintain competitive farming practices and ensure fair and consistent labeling across the country.

For the full article click HERE