What: On February 11, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed to update several voluntary consensus formaldehyde standards for composite wood products regulations under the Toxic Substances Control Act.
Why: The voluntary formaldehyde standards at issue have previously been updated or superseded by third-party organizations. These new standards primarily update test methods and product standards concerning composite wood products that use formaldehyde. EPA is also proposing to conform these updated standards in scope and definition and to incorporate by reference a new small scale quality control chamber test method, similar to current methods already incorporated by reference.
The EPA has certified that these updates will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The updated versions of the standards are substantially similar to the previous versions and EPA expects that many small entities are already in compliance.
This proposal would allow these entities the flexibility to use the most up to date versions of the standards instead of using outdated versions that do not reflect industry best practice. This action also adds one new voluntary consensus standard as a quality control test method, which regulated entities may opt to use in lieu of the other approved quality control methods, thereby increasing regulatory flexibility.
Action: Read the proposed update and submit comments by the March 13, 2026, deadline.
FEDERAL REGISTER NOTICE:
Voluntary Consensus Standards Update; Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products
CONTACT:
Nick Goldstein
EMAIL:
Regulatory Alerts
Is your small business or entity being impacted by a proposed rule? If yes, write a comment letter to the proposing agency.