Objective:

To improve scientific coordination and expand the evidence base for EPA’s glyphosate registration review under FIFRA.

Approach:

• Interagency Collaboration: HHS and EPA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to share scientific information and identify research gaps.
• Joint Technical Working Group: A working group will be formed with specialists from both agencies to focus on priority scientific questions.
• Research Focus Areas: The collaboration will address glyphosate formulation, occupational epidemiology, human exposure, and dietary exposure.
• Systematic Evaluation: EPA will conduct a systematic evaluation of peer-reviewed research published after its prior assessment.
• Transparency and Data Sharing: The MOU enhances transparency by committing to share working-group materials in a public docket.

Key Findings:

• EPA retains authority for registration decisions under FIFRA; the MOU grants no new authority to either agency.
• The partnership aims to strengthen EPA's evidence base regarding glyphosate and its potential health effects.
• EPA's human health risk assessment will include evaluations of dietary and occupational exposure to glyphosate.

Interpretation:

The MOU establishes a framework for scientific collaboration without altering the existing regulatory authority of either agency.

Limitations:

• The MOU does not predetermine or direct the outcome of EPA's glyphosate registration review.
• Each agency will operate within its existing statutory authorities.

Conclusion:

The collaboration aims to enhance the scientific basis for the ongoing review of glyphosate, with findings expected to inform future assessments.

Sources:

• HHS and EPA Announcement