Government Affairs Brief

ILTA was excited to hold our EHSS committee meetings in person on September 20-21 at the Omni Parker House in Boston.

Beginning Day 1 as a full committee, participants heard a presentation from Patrick Morrison, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), on the long-term health effects of PFAS exposure to firefighters across the country. The update included a summary of the IAFF report on health impacts for different genders of firefighters and other differentiators in studying PFAS exposure on human health. The IAFF report and research concluded that exposure to PFAS in the environment has increased risk of several cancers and other serious diseases.  Firefighters are at especially high risk due to workplace exposure to PFAS both through the use of foams and through contact with PFAS-tested protective gear. The IAFF has taken a strong stance in favor of phasing out the use of PFAS-based firefighting foams for all uses, including municipal, industrial, and defense uses.

For 20 years, Desiree Cromwell, Gulf Coast Region Manager at Phillips 66, has had the privilege to be a part of an industry she says provides energy and improves the lives of many people across the world.

“The energy industry has transformed the fundamental way people interact daily, which is aligned with my personal core values to make a difference,” Cromwell said. “Throughout my career, I’ve had many opportunities to grow, develop and increase my business acumen by working in several business functions at Phillips 66.”

The EPA issued a proposed rule on August 26 that would list two PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA. The proposed ruling would allow the EPA to hold companies financially liable for the cleanup of these PFAS that they released into the environment. It would also require stricter reporting of any environmental releases of these PFAS that exceed the default level (one pound or more over a 24-hour period).The EPA issued a proposed rule on August 26 that would list two PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA. The proposed ruling would allow the EPA to hold companies financially liable for the cleanup of these PFAS that they released into the environment. It would also require stricter reporting of any environmental releases of these PFAS that exceed the default level (one pound or more over a 24-hour period).

Following a successful exhibition at the International Liquid Terminals Association conference and trade show in Houston, Texas in May and a round of exploratory talks with their European clients’ US counterparts, Fintan Duffy, Managing Director of Re-Gen Robotics says that his company is committed to growing their market share here.

For our May 22-24, 2023 conference in Houston, we’re looking for thought leaders and contributors to share the latest trends, strategies, solutions, and future opportunities for the industry. 

Conference proposal submissions are now due by October 14, 2022.