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Schakowsky Statement on Toxic Substances Control Act

May 25, 2016

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after voting against the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA):

“The United States desperately needs adequate regulation of toxic chemicals to protect our environment. But the final bill includes an unprecedented provision that prohibits states from implementing their own rules and laws from the minute the Environmental Protection Agency begins studying the chemical to the time it actually implements a regulation. This brand new “pause preemption” would create a regulatory black hole that could prevent action to protect children, seniors and public health for years. We should not block state regulators who want to act while the EPA is reviewing a new chemical. Including so-called “pause preemption” in this bill sets a dangerous precedent for other federal agencies. I cannot support the bill with this provision included. While I am disappointed by the outcome of these TSCA negotiations, I will continue working to strengthen our regulatory protections and ensure that Americans are safe from toxic chemicals.”

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