What agency administered FIFRA until regulatory authority was transferred to the EPA in 1972?

The correct choice is the Department of Agriculture, which administered the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) before the regulatory authority was transferred to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1972. FIFRA was originally enacted in 1947 to govern the registration, distribution, and use of pesticides, ensuring that these substances were safe for the environment and public health. The Department of Agriculture's involvement provided a framework for agricultural practices, as pesticides are essential tools for managing pests in crop production.

When authority transitioned to the EPA, it allowed for a more unified and comprehensive approach to environmental regulation, reflecting the growing recognition of the need for environmental protection beyond just agricultural interests. This shift also aligned with the broader environmental movement and the establishment of the EPA in response to increasing public concern about environmental issues during that era.

The other agencies listed do not have the historical connection to the administration of FIFRA. The Environmental Protection Agency was formed as a result of the need for more stringent environmental regulation, and while it now oversees FIFRA, it did not administer it prior to 1972. The Department of Energy and the Food and Drug Administration have distinct roles focused on energy policies and food safety, respectively, and are