EPA Issues Huge Batch of SNURs - 119 Chemicals in All

In a direct final rule issued today, the USEPA has issued significant new use rules (SNURs) for 119 new chemical substances.  Four of the chemical substances are already "subject to TSCA consent orders issued by EPA."  According to the Federal Register notice, "this action requires persons who intend to manufacture, import, or process any of these 119 chemical substances for an activity that is designated as a significant new use by this rule to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing that activity. The required notification will provide EPA with the opportunity to evaluate the intended use and, if necessary, to prohibit or limit that activity before it occurs."




While SNURs significantly restrict the ability for new companies to manufacture the substances - they are limited by the restrictions in the SNUR - they actually can provide a significant benefit to the original PMN submitter who already are being allowed to manufacture or import the substances listed. 


The four chemicals that are subject to consent orders are the only ones that are considered to be of significant risk, hence the consent order to control that risk. All four are perfluorinated substances.  The other 115 chemicals have more limited restrictions designed to ensure safe use.

The SNUR notice can be viewed in full here.