News | December 8, 2009

ACC Reacts To Senate Hearing On TSCA Modernization

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) recently sent a letter to Chairman Barbara Boxer and Ranking Member James Inhofe of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works to be submitted as part of the record of the committee's hearing on the Toxic Substances Control Act. The letter supports Congress' review of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and measures that might be taken to improve the statute.

Cal Dooley, president and CEO of ACC, in the letter stated, "We were gratified to see that the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) six principles for TSCA modifications released in September 2009 reflect substantial agreement with industry's principles and those released by other stakeholders. I believe that the national interest in a robust federal chemical management system would be well-served if those areas of agreement become the focal points for dialogue among all stakeholders."

ACC this summer released principles that would enhance the way chemicals are managed in commerce. The Council is working with a diverse group of stakeholders, Congress and EPA to ensure that TSCA reform includes:

  • Providing for the protection of public health is a top priority.
  • Enhancing confidence in the federal chemical regulatory system and providing for the safe, beneficial use of chemicals.
  • Reflecting the scientific and technological advances that have been made since TSCA was enacted.
  • Ensuring continued innovation from the U.S. chemical industry so that we can keep and grow American jobs making the products that save lives, make our economy more energy efficient, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

About The American Chemistry Council
"The American Chemistry Council and its member companies want Americans to have confidence that the products they buy are safe for the uses for which they were designed. ACC and its members look forward to working with the Committee as discussions around modifications to TSCA proceed," Dooley concluded.

SOURCE: The American Chemistry Council