Comment submitted by Jonas Woodworth

I support the Environmental Protection Agency’s interim guidance expanding the availability of virucidal claims for antimicrobial pesticides, as long as strong scientific standards for testing and labeling are maintained. Allowing certain sanitizer products that already meet bactericidal standards to add virucidal claims may improve public health by increasing the number of products capable of reducing viral contamination on hard, non-porous surfaces in homes, workplaces, and other public environments. Viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 have shown how quickly infectious diseases can spread through shared surfaces. Locations like schools, restaurants, and workplaces rely on effective sanitation to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Expanding virucidal claims may help consumers and institutions identify products that are effective against viruses and encourage better sanitation practices, especially in non-healthcare settings. It is important that the EPA continues to rely on existing testing methods and performance standards for virus claims. Requiring products to meet bactericidal disinfectant or sanitizer criteria before adding virucidal claims helps ensure that product effectiveness is not reduced. Maintaining rigorous scientific testing is essential because unsupported claims about viral protection could create a false sense of security for consumers. The EPA’s authority to regulate antimicrobial pesticide labeling under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) provides an appropriate legal framework for this action. The Act requires that pesticide products be evaluated for both safety and effectiveness before they are marketed. I also support the Agency’s decision to make this policy time limited for up to ten years. This review period allows the EPA to evaluate the real world impacts of expanded virucidal claims and determine whether the policy should be revised or made permanent. Continued monitoring and clear product labeling will help ensure that this guidance improves public health while maintaining strong environmental and consumer protections.