ACC: Toxic Chemicals Safety Act Reflects Next Step Toward Modernizing Nation's Safety Regulations

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Jul 22, 2010, 07:41 ET

More improvements will be needed to ensure Safety, Innovation, Jobs

ARLINGTON, Va., July 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The bill introduced by Congressmen Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) and Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) is a step toward modernization of the nation's chemical safety laws, but more effort will be required to develop legislation that protects consumer safety, preserves America's position as a leading innovator and safeguards American jobs.

"We have long been an advocate for modernization of our nation's chemical safety laws," said ACC President and CEO Cal Dooley. "I appreciate that the Congressmen have taken this issue seriously and their willingness to have an open discussion on how to approach this challenge. We recognize this is a complex issue and a lot of hard work went into crafting this legislation, but this is just the beginning."

"Last fall the American Chemistry Council announced 10 key principles around which we believe the Toxic Substances Control Act should be modernized, and our review of this new bill is rooted in how those principles are reflected," Dooley continued. "The federal chemical regulatory system must ensure public safety, protect the ability of American business to innovate, and preserve American jobs. This bill will need more work to get us there," Dooley said.

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The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $674 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council