Critics Say EPA Chemicals Rule Fails to Protect Workers, Public

Labor and environmental advocacy groups are asking a federal court to order the EPA to better protect workers and bar certain hazardous chemicals from quick approvals.

The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), the Alaska Community Action on Toxics, and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), filed their opening briefs Oct. 16 and 17 challenging a rule the Environmental Protection Agency issued last year revising the procedures it uses when it reviews new chemicals to decide whether companies can produce them.

The EPA said the rule would be protective, clearer, more efficient, and consistent with mandates ...