Minnesota Chemical Regulation and Policy Project

Work Group MeetingSeptember 15, 2011

Phase I Opportunities

1) Collaborative, effective chemicals policy:• Sound science• Fill information gaps• Minimizes exposure to and risk from chemicals• Decision-making tools and criteria• MN unique, value-added• Increases efficiency and decreases toxicity of processes and

products

2) Demonstrate Minnesota leadership

• Priorities, vision, principles to guide policy decisions

• Inform federal conversation around TSCA

• MN unique/appropriate

• Craft appropriate state policy that integrates with federal policy

• Learn from others

• Collaborative/integrated approach

• Promote green chemistry innovation

Phase I Opportunities

3) Increase public availability of information and educate the

public and decision-makers • Educate legislature about policy options and their impacts• Ensure more effective risk communication by all

stakeholders, especially by regulators to the public

Phase I Opportunities

4) Position Minnesota to benefit economically

• Identify opportunities, incentives for business

• Identify long-term economic, public/environmental benefits

Phase I Opportunities

Collaborative approach

MN unique/appropriate

Resource efficient/promote economic development

Sound science

Information, education, communications

Major Themes from Phase I Opportunities

Project Roadmap & Milestones Late September: sub-groups continue proposal development work

October 5 Work Group meeting

1) Sub-groups present recommendation proposals

2) Work group reacts, refines, finalizes draft recommendations

3) Prepare for public input meeting

October 12 Stakeholder (Public) Input Meeting #15:00 – 7:00 pm; St. Paul location TBD

October 26 Work Group meeting

1) Review public input

2) Revise and refine recommendations

November 16

1) Revise and refine recommendations

Date TBD Stakeholder Input Meeting #2

December 7

1) Finalize and approve recommendations

Meeting Schedule & Project TimelineSeptember 23 – Environmental Initiative

Policy Sub-Group Meeting, 9:00 – 11:00 am

October 5 Work Group Mtg – UROC October 12: Stakeholder Input Group Meeting #1

5:00 – 7:00 pm, Location TBD

October 26 Work Group Mtg – UROC

November 16 Work Group Mtg – SPSC Date TBD: Stakeholder Input Group Meeting #2

December 7 Work Group Mtg – UROC

http://www.environmental-initiative.org

Issues Identified in Phase I1) There is a lack of shared vision for improved chemical management in

Minnesota, resulting in chemical-specific initiatives unrelated to a comprehensive approach.

2) The status quo of chemical regulation, management, and policy is not sustainable given outdated federal policy and the chaotic approach to chemicals management that is occurring at state and local levels.

3) There are significant data gaps in our knowledge of occurrence, exposure, risk, and impacts of chemicals on ecosystems and human health.

4) Decision making in the face of scientific uncertainty will continue to be a challenge in effective chemical regulation and management.

5) There is inconsistency in regulatory requirements, lack of clarity in “standard” definitions, and an inadequate process to evaluate the effectiveness of policy tools.

6) There is insufficient education and a gap in perception surrounding chemical exposures and risk, government’s role and degree of protection, methods for communicating accurately to the public and elected representatives, and restrictions on access to certain information.

Executive Branch

Legislative Branch

MPCA, MDH, MDA CSAP

Committee Chair/ Legislator

LAC/Auditor CSAP

Routes for “requests” to reach the Chemical Science Advisory Panel (CSAP)

Criteria

Relevant to MN environment or populationDisputed issue of science where independent review is helpful

Triggers

Proposed billCitizen concernNew chemical or chemical concern

Criteria

Criteria

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