WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) released the following statement today in opposition to the current form of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), as it is poised to move to the House Floor for a vote next week.

“For many years, I have worked with Democratic and Republican Members of Congress to update and strengthen TSCA, a chemical safety law that has not worked or been updated since 1976. We have negotiated in good faith to try to reach an agreement to fix EPA’s chemical program. And while there are positive aspects of this bill, ultimately, it is inadequate.

We must have a strong national chemical program to protect Americans. However, I am not convinced that the program that will be put into place by this bill justifies the unprecedented, new limitation of states’ authorities.

During my time in office, I have considered compromise as a critical principal to achieve results for the people I represent in New York’s 20th Congressional District. Compromise means you don’t get everything you want. However, the inability of negotiators to budge at all on the pre-emption aspect of TSCA has forced me to respectfully oppose the bill in its current form.

I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with my colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee on this significant legislation. I believe that they genuinely want to ensure our families and children are protected from dangerous and toxic chemicals. However, major obstacles from the original House version of TSCA have only grown larger and more difficult to negotiate. These obstacles are simply untenable for my constituents and New York State as a whole. I intend to oppose the bill,” said Tonko.

Tonko is the Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy.

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