EPA v. Target Corporation

Case summary

On May 19, 2023, EPA Region 10 issued a Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Order to the Target Corporation to prevent the further distribution and sale of the device, Hoover Steam Mop. The distribution and sale of the Hoover Steam Mop is in violation of Section 12(a)(1)(F) of FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(1)(F) because the product label bears false and misleading claims. Region 10 became aware of the product last summer when Target attempted to import it through Seattle, Washington. Target also attempted to import the product into Regions 4 and 9. We worked with these Regions to deny the entry of all known shipments; however, several shipments appeared to have entered the US prior to this time frame. This Order establishes federal control over this inventory. According to Target, the units are being held in stores across the country and in five distribution centers.

Defendants (1)

• Target CorporationNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (1)

• TARGET CORP

  1000 NICOLLET MALL, MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 55403-2455

  Registry ID: 110068453006

Statutes cited

• FIFRA 12A1F — Device Misbranded

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• Target Corporationentered 2023-05-19

  Primary law: FIFRA

Timeline (3 milestones)

• 2023-04-24Enforcement Action Data Entered
• 2023-05-19Final Order Issued
• 2023-05-19Complaint Filed/Proposed Order