Washington, DC-U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) joined President Obama at the White House June 22, 2016 for the signing of chemical safety legislation championed by late U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey.

The Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act makes vital updates to The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) of 1976 to ensure new layers of protection for U.S. families from chemicals found in everyday products.

“This legislation is a significant achievement that’s long overdue. It removes doubt and is both peace-of-mind for Americans concerned about their health and safety, and a tribute to the late Senator Lautenberg and his passionate advocacy for much-needed regulation of the chemical production industry,” said Rep. Norcross.

The legislation gives the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) broad, new powers to strictly regulate the chemical industry, overhauling the way tens of thousands of chemicals are used in everyday products and the potential risks to citizens & industry workers. It also requires chemical manufacturers to be both compliant and transparent regarding their products. At the same time, the legislation fosters innovation and growth in the chemical production industry, which is critical to jobs and the economy.

“With the President’s signature, this law provides critical updates that will help the EPA address the new chemicals and processes used in today’s manufacturing. This law gives us the tools to assure the American public that the everyday products they buy are safe for them and their children,” said Rep. Norcross.

In addition to needed updates to protect consumers from hazardous chemicals, the bill also addresses a critical issue important to Rep. Norcross–reducing unnecessary animal testing.  Norcross supported provisions to reduce the use of animals for chemical testing and simultaneously promote the use of the best available science for regulating chemicals.

“This approach will be more humane since it involves a shift away from animal testing. These changes will improve EPA’s ability to responsibly and more efficiently regulate chemicals and more meaningfully protect the American public from hazardous substances,” said Rep. Norcross.

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