EPA Begins Next 20 TSCA Risk Evaluations, Expanding New Law's Reach

摘要

EPA has formally begun its process for evaluating the next 20 chemicals under the revised TSCA, significantly expanding the universe of chemicals - as well as the products and companies that rely on them - subject to review and possible regulation. The agency Sept. 4 issued its final scope documents for the next 20 chemicals deemed high priority for risk evaluations, as well as its final list of companies - manufacturers, importers and users - that EPA has determined must contribute fees to help cover the costs of the evaluations under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). "With the issuance of the final scope documents, the agency will begin the risk evaluations for these chemicals and anticipates publishing draft risk evaluations for public comment over the next three years," the agency says in a statement announcing the documents. Publication of the final list of companies responsible for paying TSCA fees kicks off a 60-day clock for companies to tell the agency if they plan to create consortia and a 120-day clock for companies to begin paying fees - though the agency says it will be seeking to provide "payment flexibilities" given the economic hardships may companies are suffering due to the coronavirus pandemic.