Attorney General Brenna Bird has announced that she is leading a coalition of 19 state attorneys general in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to revise its formaldehyde regulations. The group argues that current rules established under President Biden’s administration make it nearly impossible for farmers to use formaldehyde, a substance they consider important for protecting livestock and ensuring food safety.
According to the coalition, formaldehyde plays a key role in preventing outbreaks of bacteria, viruses, and diseases among farm animals. They contend that without access to this chemical, pork and poultry producers could face significant economic losses due to disease. Additionally, there are concerns that these restrictions could impact Iowa’s egg safety and increase the risk of livestock diseases such as African swine flu and avian flu.
Bird criticized the EPA’s mandate on formaldehyde levels, stating it effectively bans its use by requiring levels lower than those naturally found in many homes across America. She warned that strict regulation may force businesses overseas and strengthen foreign competitors.
“Agriculture is the backbone of Iowa’s economy,” said Attorney General Bird. “Iowa’s farmers need access to formaldehyde to protect their livestock from diseases and to continue providing safe foods at affordable prices. Iowa farmers have used formaldehyde safely for years. We are asking the EPA to look at the facts and change this rule that hurts farmers and jeopardizes the entire agriculture industry.”
The letter sent to the EPA was led by Iowa and joined by attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Texas.
