New Survey Highlights Urgent Need for Reforms in TSCA Section 5 for Manufacturing Boost

Urgent Call for TSCA Section 5 Reform

As the U.S. Congress gears up to reauthorize the EPA's user fee authority tied to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), a new survey by the Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates (SOCMA) has revealed alarming insights into the current state of American manufacturing. With the deadline approaching on September 30, the survey underscores the critical need for streamlined processes that would foster innovation and investment within the chemical manufacturing sector.

According to the findings, an overwhelming 93% of manufacturers indicate that a more efficient and predictable TSCA Section 5 review process could significantly boost their willingness to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. As it stands, the increasingly protracted and unpredictable review process is not just a regulatory hurdle; it is having real-world repercussions on where companies choose to invest their resources and develop new products.

Manufacturers report that the extended TSCA review timelines are impeding timely decisions concerning the commercialization of new products. The survey revealed that over 60% of respondents have experienced review timelines exceeding one year, and 100% of the companies facing delays noted that their product launch timelines have been adversely affected. In fact, 82% reported missed business opportunities due to protracted reviews, while 70% admitted to canceling projects because of regulatory holdups.

The implications of this drawn-out review process reach far beyond just the immediate concerns of individual businesses. The results of SOCMA's survey suggest that over two-thirds of participants believe delays in the review process are influencing their decisions about where to base their manufacturing operations.

Jenn Klein, President and CEO of SOCMA, emphasizes the importance of these findings, stating, "Congress has spent years working to strengthen domestic manufacturing, secure critical supply chains, and reduce America's dependence on foreign suppliers. The TSCA Section 5 program plays a direct role in whether those goals are achieved."

Moreover, the survey points out that nearly half of the respondents contend that delays in EPA reviews are stalling the development of crucial alternatives to substances like PFAS. This is critical for a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, electronics, and agriculture.

The need for a modernized TSCA Section 5 review process is not merely an administrative concern; it aligns with broader policy objectives surrounding supply chain resilience and economic competitiveness. SOCMA's survey urges Congress to seize the opportunity to enact reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and reliability of chemical reviews. Specific recommendations include restoring timely reviews, enhancing transparency and regulatory predictability, and ensuring that the program effectively supports U.S. innovation and manufacturing.

As the deadline looms, the opportunity to respond to these identified issues has become almost momentous. Failing to address the underlying challenges associated with the TSCA review process means potentially missing out on a once-in-a-decade chance to leverage domestic capabilities and foster a more resilient manufacturing sector. The necessity for an expeditious, transparent, and science-based review process is not just about regulatory compliance; it is about the future of American manufacturing.

In conclusion, SOCMA urges lawmakers to prioritize these reforms and ensure that the revitalization of manufacturing in America remains one of their core objectives. As costly delays continue to create barriers for manufacturers, the evolution of the TSCA Section 5 program is paramount to sustaining innovation and competitiveness in a global marketplace. The survey clearly articulates the needs of the industry and presents a roadmap for Congress to fulfill its commitment to supporting domestic growth and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.