House subcommittee opens review of Lautenberg TSCA implementation as GAO flags review delays and fee deadline approaches

The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment held a hearing examining implementation of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), with members and witnesses focusing on delays at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the upcoming expiration of TSCA fee authority, and possible implementation changes.

The hearing’s purpose was to assess what has worked under the Lautenberg Act and what has not, and to gather a record members said is necessary before any congressional adjustments. Subcommittee leadership said the Government Accountability Office (GAO) report provided to the committee made clear there are implementation problems to address. The committee also noted that Section 26 fee authority that allows EPA to collect user fees to supplement appropriations is scheduled to expire in June 2026.

Witnesses included…