TO THE MEMBERS OF THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
PFAS are a large and diverse group of chemicals with unique properties that have been used in a broad number of beneficial applications for years. Heightened attention to potential health effects of certain PFAS has led to an increased public concern and interest in new regulatory protections in this area.
We understand these concerns and are committed to working with legislators, regulators, and all stakeholders to establish risk-based standards that protect human health and the environment. We also support the development of a consistent approach and clear timelines for assessing and regulating specific PFAS across all relevant federal agencies to ensure that government regulations, actions, and communications are coordinated for maximum effectiveness.
Any federal action should not address PFAS as a class or with predetermined outcomes, but rather should be based on sound science and the weight of the scientific evidence. Further, Congress should not circumvent existing regulatory authorities. The Environmental Protection Agency, as well as other relevant agencies, should retain their traditional power to study PFAS and determine whether to regulate certain PFAS. Many provisions included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, signed into law at the end of last year, took important steps towards meeting those goals.
We look forward to working with you on this important matter as the legislative process continues. We oppose H.R. 535, the “PFAS Action Act of 2019.”
Sincerely,
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Advamed
Airlines for America
American Chemistry Council
American Coatings Association
American Forest & Paper Association
American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers
American Petroleum Institute
Associated General Contractors of America
Flexible Packaging Association
Foodservice Packaging Institute
International Liquid Terminals Association
National Association of Chemical Distributors
National Association of Manufacturers
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)
Single Ply Roofing Industry
Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates
Specialty Graphic Imaging Association
TRSA – The Linen, Uniform and Facility Services Associatio
