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Updating TSCA Is a Win for U.S. Consumers and Families

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The U.S. chemical manufacturing industry is the engine behind American economic growth and innovation. It supports nearly every corner of the U.S. economy, from medical devices and electronics to cleaning supplies and food packaging. 

The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) is the foundation of America’s chemical safety system, designed to protect public and environmental health while enabling American innovation. TSCA provides a science-driven, risk-based regulatory framework that allows U.S. manufacturers to develop and launch new, innovative chemistries.

Keeping innovations in America

But elements of TSCA need fixing. Delays and uncertainty in TSCA’s review process can keep new chemicals from timely approval.

More than 90% of new chemical reviews exceed the 90-day deadline set by the law. In fact, on average it takes more than a year for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to approve a new chemical.


This backlog limits access to advanced chemistries critical for breakthroughs in AI, healthcare, national security, and more. It also means that companies may take their chemical innovations and manufacturing overseas, making it harder for U.S. consumers to benefit from the latest breakthroughs. 

Chemistry drives U.S. innovation and the jobs that go with it, which enhances U.S. competitiveness. Updating specific elements of TSCA could help safer, next-generation technologies reach the market faster. American consumers and families could then benefit sooner from new technologies and innovations that can be used in products ranging from medical devices and clean energy solutions to everyday goods like durable packaging and electronics.

It’s time to act: Improve TSCA

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Congress should act now to address the new chemicals review backlog, reinforce TSCA’s science- and risk-based principles, and reauthorize a key funding mechanism.

By reauthorizing TSCA fees, paired with practical reforms to improve TSCA implementation, lawmakers can help EPA unclog the innovation pipeline and help keep new technologies developed and manufactured here in America.

Consumers deserve confidence that the products they use are safe. With clear, science-based standards and timely reviews, manufacturers can innovate in the U.S. and deliver more affordable, reliable, high-performing products for American families.

American Chemistry Council

The American Chemistry Council’s mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably—for generations to come.

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