Business Coalition Sends House Energy and Commerce Committee Letter Opposing H.R. 535

November 19, 2019 
 
 
The Honorable Frank Pallone Chairman Committee on Energy and Commerce  U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 
 
The Honorable Greg Walden Ranking Member Committee on Energy and Commerce U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515
 
Dear Chairman Pallone and Ranking Member Walden: 
 
We, the undersigned associations, write to you in opposition to H.R. 535, the “PFAS Action Act of 2019,” as well as the amendment offered in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 535. 
 
PFAS are a large and diverse group of chemicals with unique properties that have been used in a broad number of beneficial applications for years. Heightened attention to potential health effects of certain PFAS has led to an increased public concern and interest in new regulatory protections in this area. 
 
We understand these concerns and are committed to working with legislators, regulators, and all stakeholders to establish risk-based standards that protect human health and the environment. We also support the development of a consistent approach and clear timelines for assessing and regulating specific PFAS across all relevant federal agencies to ensure that government regulations, actions, and communications are coordinated for maximum effectiveness. 
 
Any federal action should not address PFAS as a class, be based on sound science and the weight of the scientific evidence, and not predetermined outcomes. Further, Congress should not circumvent existing regulatory authorities. EPA, as well as other relevant agencies, should retain their traditional power to study PFAS and determine whether to regulate certain PFAS.   
 
We look forward to working with you on this important matter as the legislative process continues. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Associated General Contractors of America
AdvaMed
Council of Industrial Boiler Owners 
Airlines for America
 Flexible Packaging Association Airports Council International – North America
International Liquid Terminals Association
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers 
National Association of Chemical Distrtibutors
American Chemistry Council
American Coatings Association
National Association of Manufacturers
American Forest & Paper Association
 SGIA – Specialty Graphics Imaging
 American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers
 Association American Petroleum Institute
 Single Ply Roofing Industry
 
 
 
cc: Members of the Committee on Energy and Commerce 

191119_coalition_h.r._535_pfas_houseenergyandcomme.pdf