What: On January 3, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final risk evaluation for formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Formaldehyde is found in:
- Resins used in the manufacture of composite wood products (i.e., hardwood plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard);
- Building materials and insulation;
- Household products such as glues, permanent press fabrics, paints and coatings, lacquers and finishes, and paper products;
- Preservatives used in some medicines, cosmetics, and other consumer products such as dishwashing liquids and fabric softeners; and
- Fertilizers and pesticides.
Why: The EPA has determined that formaldehyde presents an unreasonable risk of acute and chronic injury to human health through inhalation and dermal exposures. EPA will now begin the risk management process to address the unreasonable risk presented by formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is also undergoing a separate review under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
Action: Read the Federal Register notice.
Read EPA’s risk evaluation for formaldehyde.
Advocacy Contact: Send an email to Emily Jones at Emily.Jones@sba.gov.