The EPA's New Chemicals Program is presenting a new method for analyzing and handling LVE (low volume exemptions ) requests for PFAS to save both the Americans and the environment from the potentially harmful impacts of these chemicals. It is very difficult to conduct a complete examination of LVE requests for PFAS in the 30 days allowed by the laws due to the scientific difficulties of analyzing PFAS, and the hazard risks of PFAS.
Due to the complexities of PFAS chemistry, severe health risks, and their persistence and effects on the environment, and LVE application for a PFAS is unlikely to be eligible for this type of exemption under the regulations. Although each LVE application will be evaluated on its own merits, the EPA expects to reject all pending and new PFAS LVE applications.
In addition, the EPA is exploring ways to work with businesses to assist them to withdraw previously granted LVEs voluntarily. This follows a 2016 outreach program in which companies removed more than half of the 82 long-chain PFAS LVEs available at the time.
The EPA proposed major changes to how it examines and makes judgments on new chemical submissions to better comply with TSCA, including the use of consent orders to address any unacceptable risks.
If new PFAS are allowed to enter commerce, the EPA will have checked all planned, known, and reasonably foreseen conditions of use.
Reference: https://www.epa.gov/chemicals-under-tsca/epa-announces-changes-prevent-unsafe-new-pfas-entering-market
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