ASDWA Submits Comments to EPA on Using TSCA Authorities to Protect Drinking Water Sources

On June 3, ASDWA submitted comments on EPA’s Significant New Use Rules (SNURs) on Certain Chemical Substances under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This is a new effort by ASDWA that urges EPA to use TSCA authorities as part of a holistic approach that includes preventing harmful chemicals from entering drinking water sources and the environment. This approach is important for chemical substances where there is a lack of data and information to determine potential impacts, and that may present unforeseen risks in the future, such as was the case with PFAS when manufacturing began in the 1960s. ASDWA’s comments highlight particular concern for four of the 24 chemicals in this SNUR because of their potential impacts to drinking water and human health from releases to surface water and the use and disposal of these chemicals where they can rapidly migrate into ground water. Our comments also emphasize that preventing contaminants from entering drinking water sources is much more effective and less expensive than having to remove them after contamination occurs, and is essential for protecting public health and the economy. Read ASDWA’s comments here.