American Chemistry Council To Trump: Fix Toxic Substances Control Act

As President Trump marks his first 100 days in office, the American Chemistry Council has a bold message: the industry is ready.

The council says it’s operating safer, cleaner and smarter than ever before, and positioned to drive the next wave of American innovation, growth and global competitiveness.

Today’s chemical industry has evolved over generations. Through Responsible Care, its mandatory, third-party audited performance program, the council says its ACC members are setting the bar when it comes to global standards in safety, environmental protection and accountability. These 21st-century manufacturing practices are essential to America’s future, the council says.

Strategy to Unlock the Industry’s Full Potential

To unlock the industry’s full potential, the council says it’s imperative Washington remove the barriers holding back progress.

First is fixing the Toxic Substances Control Act. The New Chemicals Program is plagued by delays. By law, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must make determinations within 90 days. Currently, that deadline is missed about 90% of the time. That kind of uncertainty stifles innovation and pushes advanced chemical development and finished goods manufacturing overseas. The council is calling for a so-called “shot clock” – one with enforceable timelines and accountability to match.

Also needed is modernizing how the industry treats recycling plastics. This entails recognizing how the law will allow the industry to turn plastic waste into reusable raw materials, reducing waste and strengthening the US supply chain.

In terms of energy and infrastructure, because the industry runs on affordable, reliable energy, advancing permitting reform and investing in energy infrastructure is key. To produce and move more chemistry in America, the council says it is imperative to update the nation’s freight rail policies to ensure access to competitive and reliable service. Also needed a trade agenda that supports domestic growth and pushes back on unfair global practices.

Pro-Growth Policies

Throughout these first 100 days, ACC has been actively advocating for smart, pro-growth policies, highlighting its role in powering the US economy across leading media platforms. In The Washington Post, the council outlined how “Everything Begins with Chemistry,” emphasizing its role in healthcare, technology and everyday innovation. In The Washington Times, it discussed how American chemistry is essential to building “stronger, better infrastructure” and the criticality of “smarter energy and chemical policy.” In Politico, it spotlighted how “America’s Economy Runs on Chemistry”—underscoring the industry’s critical role in job creation, R&D and global competitiveness.

Americans are inclined to agree.

A recent ACC-commissioned survey shows that nearly three-quarters of voters believe growing US chemical production leads to more jobs, more innovation and greater economic strength. Two-thirds support reducing unnecessary regulations and modernizing permitting processes. And a supermajority believes the industry can protect human health and the environment without sacrificing US manufacturing strength.

ACC’s message to Washington? Advance energy, transportation and infrastructure policy, embrace recycling innovation and create an overall regulatory environment that matches the industry’s commitment to progress.