On July 30, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is reconsidering its 2024 rule regulating perchloroethylene (PCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
PCE is used in the production of fluorinated compounds, as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing, and in lubricants, adhesives, and sealants. A variety of consumer and commercial products use PCE, such as adhesives (arts and crafts, as well as light repairs), aerosol degreasers, brake cleaners, aerosol lubricants, sealants, stone polish, stainless steel polish, and wipe cleaners. PCE is also used in dry cleaning.
Advocacy recommended that the EPA increase the existing chemical exposure limit (ECEL) set in the 2024 PCE rule, allow small businesses to meet the ECEL through a workplace chemical protection program (WCPP), and not place any tighter restrictions on the use of PCE in the dry-cleaning industry. Advocacy is also concerned that the 2024 PCE rule violates the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) by not identifying duplicative existing federal regulatory requirements. Additionally, the 2024 PCE rule exceeds the EPA’s authority under TSCA by banning most uses of PCE.
COMMENT LETTER
Perchloroethylene Regulation Under the TSCA, Request for Comment (PDF, 229KB)
CONTACT:
Nick Goldstein
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Letters to Agencies