Charleston Leader

Today, Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) discussed ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) New Chemicals Program at a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing. Capito engaged in a conversation with Dr. Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator of EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

During the discussion, Capito brought up a document that had been previously shared and asked for Freedhoff's thoughts on ways to improve the system. Freedhoff expressed appreciation for the constructive meeting and the ideas presented in the document. He stated, "I thought your list had a lot of really good ideas in it." Freedhoff also mentioned the Sustainable Futures Initiative, a program that existed before the law was changed, and expressed interest in revamping it to provide better support to industry in their new chemicals submissions.

Capito also raised the issue of EPA's budget and the authority they have to hire specialized individuals. She questioned whether more resources would solve the issues faced by the agency. In response, Freedhoff acknowledged that their budget had increased but emphasized the need for efficiency and innovation in addition to increased resources.

One of the points of discussion was the use of intentional misuses of chemicals to justify overly stringent restrictions. Capito inquired whether every potential use of a chemical, including intentional misuses, should be a reason to restrict. Freedhoff responded, "No, I don't."

The conversation also touched upon the frustration of constantly needing more money to solve problems. Capito expressed the need for EPA to be more efficient and innovative, to prioritize and utilize their resources effectively. She pointed out that EPA has received more resources, including an additional 2,000 people, and urged the administrator to reprioritize.

Overall, the discussion between Capito and Freedhoff highlighted the need for collaboration and improvements in EPA's New Chemicals Program. Capito's questions and suggestions aimed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the program, while Freedhoff acknowledged the importance of industry outreach and transparency in decision-making. The conversation also emphasized the need for EPA to make the most of their available resources in order to address the challenges they face.