Summary#
This bill would change parts of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). It updates testing rules, requires use of certain test guidelines, and asks the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to name test methods more often. It changes language about how the EPA decides what actions to take to reduce chemical risks. The bill adds steps for other federal departments and agencies to review and give feedback on EPA risk evaluations and requires more formal peer review by a scientific committee. It also tells the EPA to consider exposure limits or standards set by other federal agencies (including occupational safety standards) and not to assume those standards are being violated.
What it means for you#
- EPA testing rules: The EPA would be directed to use "technically feasible" testing methods and consider OECD test guidelines. The agency must update and publish certain test method lists at least every 2 years and allow public comment on proposed test methods.
- Risk evaluations: The EPA would focus on hazards and exposures that are more likely than not to cause an unreasonable risk, look at sentinel exposures, and consider aggregate exposures only after a written determination. The EPA must give other federal departments and agencies at least 30 days to comment on draft risk evaluations before public notice.
- Interagency coordination: The bill requires the EPA to consider exposure limits and standards set by other federal agencies and to provide processes for those agencies to submit information about critical uses, alternatives, and supply chain impacts.
- Worker protections and standards: When creating worker protection standards, the EPA would be required to consult with other federal agencies and trained experts in industrial hygiene, toxicology, engineering, and process safety.
- Peer review and transparency: The scientific advisory committee reviewing risk evaluations would have to hold in-person peer reviews and give reviewers at least 30 days to review materials. The bill also adds a requirement to include scientific assessments relied on by the Administrator when final agency actions are documented.
Expenses#
No publicly available information.
Proponents' View#
The bill's title and text state it is intended "to improve transparency of the regulatory process and coordination of science among Federal agencies" and to strengthen scientific standards, peer review, and interagency input in TSCA decisionmaking.
Opponents' View#
No publicly available information.