EPA Finalizes Stronger Chemical Risk Evaluation Process to Protect Workers and Communities

Summary:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule to strengthen its process for conducting risk evaluations on chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The improved risk evaluation process aims to protect public health, including workers and communities, from toxic chemicals. Key changes include: considering real-world exposure scenarios, comprehensive risk evaluations, and addressing national security or critical infrastructure uses. The rule also enhances environmental protections in overburdened communities and ensures the agency uses the best available science to conduct risk evaluations. The updated process will apply to all risk evaluations initiated 30 days after the rule's publication or later.