SOCMA Shares Key Issues Impacting Batch Manufacturing with New EPA Administrator Director Scott Pruitt

ARLINGTON, Va., May 26, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates (SOCMA) and members of its Board of Governors met with newly appointed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt on May 24 to introduce the specialty chemical sector to new EPA leadership and open dialogue about issues of importance to batch chemical manufacturers.

"We would like to thank Administrator Pruitt for taking time to meet with SOCMA and members of our Board," said SOCMA President and CEO Jennifer Abril. "SOCMA member companies prioritize the health and safety of their workers and the environment and have worked hard for many years to achieve the high standards they have in place in their facilities today. Our mission is to ensure the EPA appreciates and understands these efforts, so our members can work with the agency under the assumption of good faith. With a new Administration taking office, it is important for SOCMA to directly engage regulators and begin forging these relationships." 

During the meeting SOCMA staff and board members took the opportunity to explain the importance of specialty chemicals and their unique place in the chemical value chain. The group also shared with Pruitt the differences between batch and continuous processes, as well as many other characteristics that set specialties apart.

"As the sole voice of the specialty chemical industry, we were pleased that Administrator Pruitt recognizes the value of having the full spectrum of the chemical sector represented in policymaking," Abril said. "SOCMA is encouraged by EPA's intentions to make lasting changes so industry can be heard and serve as a resource to the agency."

Specifically, SOCMA asked the Administrator for:

• Consistency in enforcement of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations
• Review of EPA's proposed Risk Management Program (RMP)
• Resolution of the backlog of pre-manufacture notices

"The meeting was a productive one for SOCMA and our batch chemical manufacturers," Abril said. "We look forward to working with Administrator Pruitt and his team moving forward on policy matters of mutual interest."

About SOCMA
Since 1921 SOCMA has represented a diverse membership of chemical companies located around the world bringing world-class support uniquely tailored to enhance the operational excellence of our member companies. www.socma.com

Contact:
Jenny Gaines
Director, Marketing and Communications           
(571) 348-5110
[email protected]

SOURCE Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates