Comment submitted by Tina Bailey

I respectfully urge EPA to carefully evaluate the proposed new use of sulfur dioxide as a fungicide on figs before approving this application. Although sulfur dioxide has existing registered uses, expanding its use to additional crops has the potential to increase environmental and human exposure. EPA should thoroughly assess whether the proposed use could affect farmworkers, nearby communities, consumers, wildlife, and beneficial organisms, including pollinators and other species that support healthy agricultural ecosystems. EPA should also consider cumulative exposure from multiple pesticide sources, evaluate whether existing data adequately address long-term health and ecological effects, and require additional studies if important data gaps remain. Any approval should include protective measures that minimize unnecessary exposure and reduce risks to air quality, surrounding habitats, and non-target organisms. In addition, EPA should ensure that its review fully complies with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, the Endangered Species Act, and all other applicable environmental laws. New pesticide uses should be approved only when there is clear scientific evidence that they will not cause unreasonable adverse effects on human health or the environment. Thank you for the opportunity to comment and for carefully considering the potential impacts of this proposed registration.