"Boxer Faces Key Test on Toxic-Chemicals Law"

"WASHINGTON -- Sen. Barbara Boxer will seize control of efforts to regulate industrial chemicals during what lobbyists are calling a 'mega-hearing' Wednesday that will test her ability to navigate a major environmental law through a divided Congress."



"The hearing is expected to include California officials who fear federal preemption of the state's laws on toxic chemicals.

Boxer, the California Democrat who is chairwoman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, had been blindsided by a deal struck by the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J. to reform an antiquated 1976 law known as the Toxic Substances Control Act."

Carolyn Lochhead reports for the San Francisco Chronicle July 31, 2013.

SEE ALSO:

"States Worry That Federal Action Could Limit Their Control of Chemicals" (McClatchy)

"Chemical Bill's Backers Hope to Assuage Barbara Boxer's Concerns" (Roll Call)

"US Senate Panel To Consider Chemical Safety Bill" (Baton Rouge Advocate)
 

Source: San Francisco Chronicle, 07/31/2013