The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reconsidering regulations passed late last year on perchloroethylene.
PCE, a solvent widely used for things such as brake cleaners and adhesives, in commercial applications such as dry cleaning, and in many industrial settings, is a carcinogen and known to contaminate groundwater.
The EPA issued a final rule on December 17, 2024 to address PCE, which it has identified as having primary health risks such as neurological effects from short- and long-term exposure to the chemical and cancer from long-term exposure.
After the rule was issued, several lawsuits were filed. The EPA then announced on July 30 that it was opening a 30-day public comment period on the final risk management rule.
The EPA stated the action “is the first step in EPA’s efforts to reconsider and, if appropriate, revise this final risk management rule. This review is being done in accordance with applicable law, executive orders, and administration policies.” The EPA cited the “Ensuring Lawful Governance and Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Deregulatory Ensuring Lawful Governance and Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Deregulatory Initiative” and the “Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative Pillar I: Clean Air, Land, and Water for Every American.”
Comments will be accepted until August 29 on docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0720.
Read the Federal Register notice.