Which section under FIFRA exempts from registration pesticides considered to pose minimal risk?

The section under FIFRA that exempts pesticides considered to pose minimal risk from registration is Section 25(b). This section specifically outlines criteria that products must meet to qualify for this exemption, which includes requirements such as being made from certain safe ingredients and being labeled for specific uses. Pesticides categorized under this section are generally accepted to have a low potential for risk to human health and the environment, which allows for easier access to the marketplace without the rigorous registration process typical of other pesticide products.

This exemption is important as it facilitates the availability of safer alternatives for pest control, particularly for home and garden use, where consumers may prefer products that use naturally derived components. This allows for a more straightforward process for manufacturers of such minimal-risk pesticides, enabling them to reach consumers without the lengthy approval timeline associated with more potentially harmful chemicals.

Other sections mentioned serve different regulatory purposes: Section 18 pertains to emergency exemptions for unregistered uses of pesticides, Section 3 covers the general registration of pesticides, and Section 24(c) involves special local needs registration. Each of these sections plays a distinct role in the overarching framework of pesticide regulation, further emphasizing the unique function of Section 25(b) in promoting the use of low-risk pesticide products.