Why Passage of Toxic Chemical Reform Is a Really Big Deal

First, the obvious: It’s the first major environmental legislation to be enacted in more than 20 years. And it’s all the more remarkable that it passed, with strong bipartisan support, in a divided Congress and at a time when most environmental issues are highly polarizing. Last month, the House passed the bicameral agreement by the overwhelming margin of 403-12. And just this week, the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 2576) came to the Senate floor by unanimous consent, passed on a voice vote and was sent the president’s desk for his signature.

While virtually ...