Fond Du Lac Times

Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) has introduced a new bill aimed at reducing red tape imposed by the Biden Administration's Environmental Protection Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). The bill, known as the No Industrial Restrictions in Secret Act (No IRIS Act), seeks to protect American safety, jobs, and ensure that chemical risk assessments are based on the best available science rather than political agendas.

According to Grothman, the Biden Administration has disrupted the work of Wisconsin's chemical manufacturers and hindered the success of the industry through the abuse of the EPA's IRIS program. He believes that the program has issued assessments that conflict with the industry's expertise and methodologies. Grothman states, "The No IRIS Act will protect American jobs, promote innovation, and hold the EPA accountable for acting against the best interests of the industry and our economy."

The No IRIS Act has gained support from various organizations, including the American Chemistry Council and Hexion Specialty Chemicals. Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, applauds Grothman's efforts, stating, "We thank Congressman Grothman and Senator Kennedy for their work to promote sound science in the regulatory process, and we urge Congress to act now and pass this needed legislation."

The EPA's IRIS program, established in 1985, collects data on how chemicals impact human health but was never authorized by Congress. Under President Biden's EPA, the program has been criticized for relying on flawed scientific data and disregarding relevant information and public input. These assessments have had devastating consequences for private industries. The No IRIS Act aims to prevent the EPA from using IRIS assessments as their primary source when drafting rulemakings.

This is not the first time Grothman has taken action against the IRIS program. In November 2023, his amendment to restrict funding for IRIS was included in the House-passed Interior Appropriations bill.

In conclusion, Congressman Glenn Grothman's introduction of the No IRIS Act seeks to address the issues surrounding the EPA's IRIS program. Supported by industry organizations and aiming to protect American jobs and promote innovation, the bill aims to ensure that chemical risk assessments are based on sound science rather than political agendas. With growing support, it remains to be seen how Congress will respond to this proposed legislation.