US environmental regulators will ban a pesticide on some crops, but not all
What happened
US environmental regulators are moving to ban the pesticide chlorpyrifos on most crops. However, it will still be allowed on a specific list of crops, including apples, citrus, and cotton.
Why it matters
For years, environmental groups have pushed for a full ban on chlorpyrifos, citing health risks. This proposal means that while the pesticide will be restricted, it will not be completely removed from the food supply. Farmers of certain crops will retain access to a chemical that others will lose.
The signal
Watch for the final rule to see if the list of exempted crops changes, or if the ban is expanded to all uses.