View Rule

On June 22, 2016, the Lautenberg amendments to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) were signed into law and impacted how EPA reviews and makes determinations on new chemical notices under TSCA section 5. As a result of these increased responsibilities, it has become more challenging for EPA to complete reviews within 90 days. This rulemaking seeks to revise the new chemicals procedural regulations in 40 CFR part 720 to improve the efficiency of EPA's review process and to align its processes and procedures with the new statutory requirements. This rulemaking seeks to increase the quality of information initially submitted in new chemicals notices and improve the Agency's processes to reduce unnecessary rework in the risk assessment and, ultimately, the length of time that new chemicals are under review.

Statement of Need:

This rulemaking seeks to revise the new chemicals procedural regulations in 40 CFR part 720 to improve the efficiency of EPA's review process and to align its processes and procedures with the new statutory requirements from the June 22, 2016 Lautenberg amendments to TSCA. This rulemaking seeks to increase the quality of information initially submitted in new chemicals notices and improve the Agency's processes to reduce unnecessary work in the risk assessment and ultimately the length of time that new chemicals are under review.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

EPA is charged with implementing TSCA section 5 to review new chemicals and has issued procedural regulation under 40 CFR part 720 to facilitate that review.

Alternatives:

Decisions and related analysis are still in process and not available for this rule.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

Decisions and related analysis are still in process and not available for this rule. However, EPA anticipates changes will increase efficiencies without significant costs.

Risks:

This is a procedural rulemaking that is not intended to directly address any risks to health or the environment.