House Republicans have released a draft bill aiming to revise the nation’s primary chemical safety law, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), with the stated intention of boosting manufacturing and innovation.
Changes to Chemical Review Process
The proposed legislation would amend TSCA, which currently requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to evaluate chemicals for safety before they enter the market. Under the draft bill, chemicals already approved in other countries would be fast-tracked by the EPA. The agency would also prioritize chemicals designed as replacements for more harmful substances or those addressing supply-chain issues for critical materials.
Industry and Advocate Reactions
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) president and CEO, Chris Jahn, stated that “getting TSCA back on track is critical for American chemistry” and industries reliant on chemical innovation. However, the draft bill has drawn criticism from environmental and health advocates. Liz Hitchcock, director of Safer Chemicals Healthy Families, called the bill “a chemical lobby wish list.”
The proposed changes include softening language regarding industry requirements. Existing language requiring changes to eliminate risk would be altered to minimize risk “to the extent reasonably feasible.” The bill also includes a provision prohibiting the EPA from restricting chemicals used in aerospace fire suppression certified by the Federal Aviation Administration or the Department of Defense, substances previously identified as a major source of PFAS.
Legislative Timeline and Concerns
The House Subcommittee on Environment is scheduled to hold a hearing on the draft bill on January 22. Concerns have been raised that the bill could weaken the nation’s defenses against toxic chemicals, particularly for vulnerable populations. Rebecca Reindel, director of occupational safety and health for the AFL-CIO, emphasized that the proposed changes also pose risks to worker safety.
The EPA has also recently taken actions that some see as targeting TSCA, including proposals to roll back amendments added during the Biden administration and to fast-track reviews for chemicals used in data center projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TSCA?
TSCA is a federal law under which the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) evaluates chemicals to ensure human and environmental health are protected before they are introduced into the marketplace.
What is the main goal of the proposed bill?
According to its sponsors, the bill aims to “increase accountability, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and safeguard the health and safety of our communities” by revising provisions of TSCA.
Who opposes the proposed changes to TSCA?
Environmental and health advocates, such as Liz Hitchcock of Safer Chemicals Healthy Families and Joanna Slaney of the Environmental Defense Fund, oppose the bill, arguing it weakens safety protections and favors industry interests.
How might these changes impact the speed at which new chemicals are approved for use in the United States?
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