H.R.123 - Improving Science in Chemical Assessments Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 123, the "Improving Science in Chemical Assessments Act," aims to modify the process by which the EPA assesses the toxicity of chemicals. It shifts responsibility for certain chemical assessments from the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program to the EPA's program offices. The bill also establishes a steering committee to coordinate these assessments and ensure no duplication of effort.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely change how the EPA evaluates chemical risks, potentially leading to assessments that are more aligned with the needs of specific program offices. This could result in faster or more targeted assessments. It also mandates the creation of a chemical assessment database and requires regular certifications to ensure scientific standards are maintained.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Coordination: The steering committee aims to streamline the assessment process and prevent redundant efforts.
- Program-Specific Relevance: Assessments will be more tailored to the needs of individual EPA program offices.
- Transparency: The chemical assessment database will make toxicity values publicly available.
- Scientific Rigor: The bill emphasizes the use of best available science and weight-of-evidence approaches.
- Range of Risk Estimates: Toxicity values will include a range of point estimates and associated uncertainties.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Inconsistency: Shifting assessments to program offices could lead to inconsistencies in methodologies and standards across the EPA.
- Duplication of Effort: Despite the steering committee, some duplication may still occur if program offices have overlapping jurisdictions.
- Resource Strain: Program offices may lack the resources or expertise to conduct complex chemical assessments.
- Influence of Political Pressure: Program offices might be more susceptible to political or industry pressure than a centralized IRIS program.
- Slower Assessments: The new processes and committee coordination could slow down the overall assessment timeline.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate in areas related to environmental protection and public health, which are within the scope of interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8). The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).