1. Define the following words as used in the article:

-eradicate (para 1)
-pesticide (para. 1)
-carcinogen (para. 4)
-exemption (para. 4)

2. What is the EPA?

3. a) Why did the EPA ban the indoor use of propoxur, which would eradicate bedbugs?
b) How many states are asking the EPA to permit them to use propoxur (by giving them an emergency exemption from the ban)?
c) Read the information under "Resources" and "Background" below. Do you think the EPA should give states an exemption from the ban? Explain your answer.

4. a) How were bedbugs eradicated in the U.S. in the 1940s and '50s?
b) Why isn't that method used today?

5. a) Why does Mr. Christman say that propoxur is the best? (para. 15)
Pest control experts say that the federal government is overreacting and that professionals can work with families to prevent children from being exposed to harmful levels of propoxur. (from para. 13) If you had bedbugs in your home (beds), would you want the EPA to lift the ban on propoxur? Explain your answer.

CHALLENGE QUESTION: Read about DDT under "Resources" below. What do you think about the worldwide ban on DDT?