Statement from Andy Igrejas, Director of Safer Chemicals Healthy Families
Washington, DC — Yesterday draft legislation to reform the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) was circulated after several months of negotiations between the House and Senate. Representatives Pallone and Tonko, the Ranking Members for the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the relevant subcommittee also announced they were no longer in the final negotiations. In response, Andy Igrejas, Director of Safer Chemicals Healthy Families, released the following statement:
“Representatives Pallone and Tonko have played a critical role in keeping public health concerns front and center in the debate over chemical policy reform. The news yesterday that they are not in the final negotiations is concerning.
“The draft legislation circulated yesterday contains several reforms that would empower EPA, but it also restrains EPA and especially state governments in new and unacceptable ways.
“There are disincentives to test toxic chemicals in the bill that could lead to adverse health effects for people and wildlife. There are loopholes for imported products that mean toxic chemicals could hitch a ride into our homes through toys, furniture and clothing made overseas. Recent and pending state restrictions on toxic flame retardant chemicals will be nullified in favor of federal rules that are years away and which may be weaker than what states are proposing right now.
“We urge Congress to resume negotiations toward a final reform that advances public health and which can enjoy broad public support.”