The House Energy and Commerce Committee will vote tomorrow on H.R.2576, the “TSCA Modernization Act” introduced by Congressman John Shimkus (R-Ill.). This bipartisan legislation modernizes the outdated and inefficient Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) with common-sense reforms that protect consumers and encourage innovation and commerce. ATR supports the TSCA Modernization Act and urges both the Energy and Commerce Committee and the full House of Representatives to vote for and support this important legislation.
TSCA was enacted in 1976 to regulate the production and distribution of chemicals in America. Nearly 40 years later, TSCA remains nearly unchanged and is in need of reforms to increase the efficiency with which chemicals are reviewed and distributed throughout the U.S.
H.R. 2576 contains a number of necessary reforms that will improve TSCA. First, the bill implements a robust yet streamlined chemical review process that increases consumer protections. It does so by taking health and environmental concerns into consideration based on the best available science instead of costs.
Currently, chemical manufacturers face a patchwork of confusing and inconsistent regulations from state to state. This has created burdensome compliance requirements and uncertainty for businesses. H.R. 2576 helps resolve this uncertainty by providing a stronger and more cohesive national chemical regulatory program that streamlines interstate commerce.
TSCA as it exists today is an inefficient and outdated regulatory system that creates uncertainty and burdens on commerce, which in turn impacts consumers and the economy. H.R. 2576 will provide a desperately needed update that protects consumers, encourages innovation and commerce, and respects health and environmental concerns. ATR urges all members of Congress to support this bipartisan solution.