Contact:

Matt Dempsey Matt_Dempsey@epw.senate.gov  (202)224-9797

David Lungren David_Lungren@epw.senate.gov (202)224-5642

 Inhofe Statement on TSCA Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, today commented on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) announcement of core principles as guidelines for legislative reform of the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act, or TSCA.

"TSCA's current risk-based review process protects human health and the environment," Senator Inhofe said.  "However, I am open to considering changes to the law, but only if those changes modernize chemical reviews, increase public understanding of the process, and strengthen protections for human health and the environment."

"I also believe that any changes to TSCA-statutory or regulatory-must follow these fundamental principles:

- Use data and methods based on the best available science and risk-based assessment.

- Include cost/benefit considerations for the private-sector and consumers.

- Protect proprietary business information, as well as information that should be protected for security reasons.

- Prioritize reviews for existing chemicals.

- Does not include any provision that encourages litigation or citizen suits.

- Does not include any provision that compels product substitution.

"I look forward to working with EPA, stakeholders, and other lawmakers to ensure that any changes to TSCA follow these general principles.  That way we can protect public health and the environment without impacting jobs and the economy."

###