EPA Extends Comment Period on Proposed SNURs for 18 Chemicals Made from Plastic Waste-Based Feedstocks

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on July 19, 2023, that it is extending the public comment period for its proposed significant new use rules (SNUR) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to ensure chemicals made from plastic waste-derived feedstocks are free from certain contaminants before they can be used to make transportation fuels. The SNURs would require companies to notify EPA before manufacturing or processing 18 chemicals made from plastic waste-derived feedstocks that contain impurities like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), heavy metals, dioxins, bisphenols, and flame retardants. EPA notes that its decision to extend the public comment period for the SNURs does not impact the date on which use of the substances would be considered a significant new use, which is June 20, 2023. EPA has extended the comment period from July 20, 2023, to August 19, 2023. 88 Fed. Reg. 46726. More information on the proposed SNURs is available in our June 20, 2023, memorandum.