EPA director backs tougher regulation of chemicals

Better labeling, testing must be done to protect against toxins, summit told

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Meg Kissinger
Published October 8, 2009

Lisa Jackson, director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, said Tuesday that massive reform is needed if America's children are to be protected from toxins, such as bisphenol A, found in household products. "We are not getting the job done," Jackson said at a summit of government scientists, chemical industry executives and environmental advocates. "We know far too little about chemicals coming into the market," she said. "Manufacturers have far too little certainty about how chemicals they make are regulated. The EPA needs the tools to do the job that the public expects." Jackson cited programs highlighted in the Journal Sentinel ongoing series "Chemical Fallout" as examples of how the government has failed to give consumers the information that they need. The programs include the EPA's High Production Volume Challenge program, the Voluntary Children's Chemical Evaluation Program and the Toxic Substance Control Act. She urged the estimated 200 members in the audience to make chemical reform a top priority alongside health care reform and global warming. Ken Cook, director of Environmental Working Group, said the gathering was meant to take advantage of a renewed energy for chemical reform. "If not now, then when?" he said. Read the entire article here: http://www.jsonline.com/watchdog/watchdogreports/63648292.html