Preventing Mass Casualties from Release of Hydrofluoric Acid at Refineries Act of 2026
Summary
The "Preventing Mass Casualties from Release of Hydrofluoric Acid at Refineries Act of 2026" aims to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act to prohibit the use of hydrogen fluoride (hydrofluoric acid) in petroleum refineries. This prohibition applies to new refineries immediately and existing refineries within five years of the Act's enactment. The bill cites the dangers of hydrofluoric acid releases and the availability of safer alternatives.
Expected Effects
The Act will require petroleum refineries to switch to alternative technologies for refining petroleum. This will likely increase the initial costs for refineries but reduce the risk of mass casualty events due to hydrofluoric acid releases. The Act also stipulates a civil penalty of $37,500 for each violation of the prohibition.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of mass casualty events from hydrofluoric acid releases.
- Increased safety for refinery workers and surrounding communities.
- Stimulation of innovation and adoption of safer refining technologies.
- Potential for reduced environmental burdens in at-risk communities.
- Alignment with the precautionary principle in environmental and public health protection.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for refineries to transition to alternative technologies, potentially leading to higher fuel prices.
- Potential for temporary disruptions in fuel supply during the transition period.
- Possible job losses in refineries if the transition is not managed effectively.
- Risk of unintended consequences from the adoption of new technologies.
- Potential for legal challenges from the petroleum industry.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to protect public health and safety by regulating toxic substances. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the production and refining of petroleum. The specific section of the constitution that applies is Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the several states. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).