EPA Seeks Comment on Draft Risk Evaluation for Chemical Used in Flame Retardant

What: On June 16, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a draft risk evaluation for 4,4′-(1-Methylethylidene)bis[2,6-dibromophenol] or “TBBPA”, a chemical commonly used in flame retardants.

Why: TBBPA is a crystalline solid used as both an additive and reactive flame retardant. As an additive flame retardant, TBBPA is incorporated into polymers and used in electronic enclosures and electronic consumer products with an outer plastic casing. As a reactive flame retardant, TBBPA is primarily used in epoxy resin printed circuit boards. TBBPA is also used in fabric, textile, leather products, and construction materials.

The purpose of a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) draft risk evaluation is to determine whether a chemical substance presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health or the environment. After consideration of comments received from the public on the draft risk evaluation, EPA will issue a final risk evaluation for TBBPA.

Action: Read the draft risk evaluation and submit comments before the August 17, 2026, deadline.

Access our Regulatory Alerts to view and submit comments on important proposed regulations.