Regulating Industrial Chemicals: Lessons for U.S. Lawmakers from the European Union's Reach Program

Abstract

Should Europe’s chemicals law, called REACH, be considered by U.S. policymakers interested in reform of TSCA? The new REACH registration process, while burdensome, is more workable than was originally feared. However, it appears that REACH is much more complex than it needs to be to accomplish its objectives. U.S. policymakers should consider simplifications of the REACH program.

Keywords: chemical, REACH, TSCA, toxic substances, environmental law, European Union