SW Arkansas Times

WASHINGTON - In a recent development, Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) has raised concerns about the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Integrated Risk Information System Program (IRIS) and its risk assessment of formaldehyde. In a letter addressed to EPA leadership, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Marine Fisheries Service, Westerman highlighted the potential negative impacts of the IRIS assessment on various sectors.

Westerman urged the agencies to collaborate and thoroughly evaluate the implications of the IRIS assessment before finalizing it. He emphasized the importance of interagency coordination, stating, “My concern is that this is not currently happening.”

The Congressman's concerns stem from the lack of consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service during the development of the formaldehyde risk assessment. Westerman's visit to Bakelite Synthetics in Arkansas last fall exposed him to stakeholder worries about the EPA's approach to the IRIS program.

The EPA's IRIS Program, responsible for developing risk assessments for chemicals, has faced criticism for its lack of transparency and delays in the assessment process. The ongoing formaldehyde risk assessment could influence regulatory activities under important statutes like the Toxic Substances Control Act and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act.

Members of Congress from both parties have previously expressed concerns about the potential impacts of the formaldehyde assessment on various sectors. Westerman's letter echoes these worries, calling for a comprehensive evaluation of the IRIS assessment involving all relevant agencies.

Formaldehyde's widespread use in various industries, particularly in Arkansas, underscores the necessity of a rigorous and consultative process in developing the risk assessment. Congressman Westerman's efforts aim to ensure that decisions regarding formaldehyde regulation are based on sound science and take into account the interests of all stakeholders involved.