Charleston Leader

In a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing, 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 with Dr. Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator of EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

During the hearing, Ranking Member Capito highlighted the need for collaboration to enhance the EPA's new chemicals review process. She mentioned a document that was shared last week and asked for Dr. Freedhoff's initial reaction on ways to improve the system. In response, Dr. Freedhoff expressed appreciation for the constructive meeting and acknowledged the valuable ideas presented in the document. He mentioned the possibility of revamping the Sustainable Futures Initiative, a program aimed at helping industry write better new chemical submissions. Dr. Freedhoff also committed to providing transparency on the use of models instead of industry-submitted data, if industry data is available.

Ranking Member Capito also raised the issue of resource allocation and questioned the need for additional funding. She cited Title 42, which gives the EPA the authority to hire highly specialized individuals, and expressed concern over the agency's failure to utilize this opportunity. She asked for assurances that more resources would indeed solve the efficiency issue.

Furthermore, Ranking Member Capito questioned whether the speculative unintended uses of chemicals should be used to justify overly stringent restrictions. Dr. Freedhoff responded by stating that he does not believe every potential use of a chemical, including intentional misuses, should be a reason to restrict.

In response to concerns about funding, Dr. Freedhoff acknowledged the frustration and emphasized the need for efficiency and innovation. He highlighted the importance of using authorities like Title 42 and listening to stakeholders to make improvements. Furthermore, he pointed out that the EPA has received additional resources in recent years, including 2,000 more employees, and suggested that the administrator should reprioritize to address the challenges faced by the New Chemicals Program.

The hearing provided an opportunity for Ranking Member Capito and Dr. Freedhoff to discuss ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the EPA's New Chemicals Program. Their dialogue focused on collaboration, resource allocation, and the need for transparency in decision-making. As the EPA continues to navigate the implementation of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), these discussions will play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of public health and the environment.