WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a regulatory procedure requiring companies to report new uses of chemicals known as glymes in consumer products. EPA’s proposed action is based in part on concerns that additional uses of these 14 chemicals in consumer products could lead to harmful reproductive and developmental health effects. Glymes are chemicals used in a wide array of applications including printing ink, paints and coatings, adhesives, household batteries, and motor vehicle brake systems.

The proposed regulatory procedure is known as a significant new use rule (SNUR) under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The SNUR would ensure that, prior to the manufacture, import or processing of these chemicals for a significant new use, EPA will have 90 days to evaluate potential risks and prohibit or limit the activity if warranted.

Comments on the proposal must be received on or before September 9, 2011. The proposal and supporting information can be found in docket number EPA–HQ–OPPT–2009–0767 on the Federal eRulemaking Portal, http://www.regulations.gov.