What should you do when state and federal laws differ?

• A. Follow the stricter state standard.
• B. Always follow federal law.
• C. Follow whichever is easier for you.
• D. Ignore state and federal law and use the label only.

Answer: (A)

When rules at different levels don’t line up, you follow the more protective standard. In pesticide regulation, the federal label provides the baseline, but states can require stricter protections. If a state rule is stricter than the federal one, you must follow the state rule. This ensures safety for people, animals, and the environment and keeps you compliant with both sets of rules. So, apply the stricter standard you must follow the most protective applicable rule.