What: On December 18, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized updates to the New Chemicals Regulations under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The final rule removes the low volume exemption and low release and exposure exemptions from the review process for polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals. The final rule also amends procedural steps that the agency hopes will add efficiencies to the new chemicals review process, including clarifying the level of detail needed in new chemical notices.
Why: Advocacy submitted comments on the proposed rule expressing concern that the EPA did not adequately assess the impact of the rule on small businesses. Additionally, Advocacy expressed concerns that the agency relied on conservative data and default values which might impact the new chemical review process for small businesses.
The final rule will be effective January 17, 2025.
Action: Read the Federal Register notice.
Advocacy Contact: Send an email to Emily Jones at Emily.Jones@sba.gov.