U.S. EPA Seeks to Revise Chemical Reporting

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing several actions to improve reporting on chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The Inventory Update Reporting Rule enables EPA to collect and make current information on volumes of chemical production, manufacturing facility data, and how the chemicals are used. This information helps the agency determine whether chemicals may pose risks to people or the environment. In addition to enhancing the information to be reported, EPA is proposing to increase the frequency of reporting.

The proposed rule would require manufacturers, including importers, to submit information electronically, which will help the agency to make the data public more quickly. The proposed rule also would limit the information that can be treated as confidential so the public can access it, and require more reporting from chemical manufacturers.

This proposal will undergo public comment, which EPA will use to develop the final rule and guidance documents. EPA expects to finalize the modifications to the chemical information reporting rule in time for the next reporting period, scheduled for June 1 – Sept.30, 2011. EPA will make the electronic reporting software and associated guidance materials available before the start of the submission period.

In addition to the proposed rule on chemical reporting, EPA is seeking public comment on a draft guidance document on chemical information reporting and on specific documents relating to the reporting of chemical byproducts.

To submit comments on the proposed rule and the guidance document, see docket EPA–HQ–OPPT–2009-0187 at www.regulations.gov.