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Tougher Toxic Chemical Legislation Being Considered

Friday, October 2, 2009

Legislation is being considered that would replace the existing ineffective system for regulating toxic chemicals. The new proposal, presented by the Obama administration, will overhaul the regulation of thousands of chemicals that are used in everyday products and in the workplace. The Senate version of the legislation is sponsored by Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ).

The current law is stringent requiring the EPA to determine that any risks posed by a chemical are not outweighed by the substance’s economic and societal benefits. The lack of concern for human safety was demonstrated when after years of documenting the hazards of asbestos, a carcinogen known to cause mesothelioma, the EPA ban was overturned by a federal court.

EPA Administrator, Lisa Jackson, said that “as more and more chemicals are found in our bodies and in the environment, the public is understandably anxious and confused.” The legislation, she states, is overdue.

Chemical manufacturers would now have to disclose information about the risks of any existing products as well as any new products developed. The companies will no longer be able to claim trade secrets should prevent them from having to disclose the information. They would also need to comply with regulations requiring safety tests on the chemicals.

Obama Plan

Labels: asbestos, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 1:37 PM
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