Modification of Significant New Uses of Certain Chemical Substances (20-1.M), 67996-68001 [2020-21464]
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67996
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 208 / Tuesday, October 27, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
direct effect on one or more Indian
tribes, on the relationship between the
Federal Government and Indian tribes,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities between the Federal
Government and Indian tribes.
E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
F. Environment
We have analyzed this rule under
Department of Homeland Security
Directive 023–01, Rev. 1, associated
implementing instructions, and
Environmental Planning COMDTINST
5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast
Guard in complying with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42
U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have
determined that this action is one of a
category of actions that do not
individually or cumulatively have a
significant effect on the human
environment. This rule involves a safety
zone lasting for a total of 20 hours that
will prohibit entry within 200 yards of
a worksite crossing the Menominee
River for the removal of overhead
electrical cables crossing the river. It is
categorically excluded from further
review under paragraph L60(a) of
Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS Instruction
Manual 023–01–001–01, Rev. 1. A
Record of Environmental Consideration
supporting this determination is
available in the docket. For instructions
on locating the docket, see the
ADDRESSES section of this preamble.
G. Protest Activities
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The Coast Guard respects the First
Amendment rights of protesters.
Protesters are asked to call or email the
person listed in the FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT section to
coordinate protest activities so that your
message can be received without
jeopardizing the safety or security of
people, places, or vessels.
Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation
(water), Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Security measures,
Waterways.
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PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION
AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS
1. The authority citation for part 165
continues to read as follows:
■
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires
Federal agencies to assess the effects of
their discretionary regulatory actions. In
particular, the Act addresses actions
that may result in the expenditure by a
State, local, or tribal government, in the
aggregate, or by the private sector of
$100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or
more in any one year. Though this rule
will not result in such an expenditure,
we do discuss the effects of this rule
elsewhere in this preamble.
List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165
For the reasons discussed in the
preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33
CFR part 165 as follows:
Authority: 46 U.S.C. 70034, 70051; 33 CFR
1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5;
Department of Homeland Security Delegation
No. 0170.1.
2. Add § 165.T09–0642 to read as
follows:
■
§ 165.T09–0642 Safety Zone; Electrical
Cable Removal, Menominee River,
Menominee, MI and Marinette, WI.
(a) Location. All navigable waters of
the Menominee River within 200 yards
of a line crossing the river from
coordinates 45.096326° N, 087.602092°
W to 45.097197° N, 087.600601° W.
(b) Enforcement period. The regulated
area described in paragraph (a) is
effective from 7 a.m. through 5 p.m. on
October 27 and October 28, 2020.
(c) Regulations. (1) In accordance with
the general regulations in section
§ 165.23, entry into, transiting, or
anchoring within this safety zone is
prohibited unless authorized by the
Captain of the Port Lake Michigan
(COTP) or a designated representative.
(2) This safety zone is closed to all
vessel traffic, except as may be
permitted by the COTP or a designated
representative.
(3) The ‘‘designated representative’’ of
the COTP is any Coast Guard
commissioned, warrant, or petty officer
who has been designated by the COTP
to act on his or her behalf.
(4) Persons and vessel operators
desiring to enter or operate within the
safety zone must contact the COTP or
designated representative to obtain
permission to do so. The COTP or
designated representative may be
contacted via VHF Channel 16. Vessel
operators given permission to enter or
operate in the safety zone must comply
with all directions given to them by the
COTP or designated representative.
Dated: October 20, 2020.
D.P. Montoro,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the
Port Lake Michigan.
[FR Doc. 2020–23650 Filed 10–26–20; 8:45 am]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 721
[EPA–HQ–OPPT–2019–0614; FRL–10013–
53]
RIN 2070–AB27
Modification of Significant New Uses
of Certain Chemical Substances (20–
1.M)
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
EPA is amending significant
new use rules (SNURs) issued under the
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
for certain chemical substances, which
were the subject of premanufacture
notices (PMNs) and significant new use
notices (SNUNs). As a result of EPA’s
review of SNUNs for these chemical
substances and based on new and
existing data, EPA is finalizing
amendments to these SNURs.
Specifically, this action amends the
identified SNURs to allow certain new
uses reported in the SNUNs without
additional notification requirements and
modify the significant new use
notification requirements based on the
actions and determinations for the
SNUN submissions.
DATES: This rule is effective on
December 28, 2020. For purposes of
judicial review, this rule shall be
promulgated at 1 p.m. (e.s.t.) on
November 10, 2020.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
For technical information contact:
William Wysong, Chemical Control
Division (7405M), Office of Pollution
Prevention and Toxics, Environmental
Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania
Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460–0001;
telephone number: (202) 564–4163;
email address: wysong.william@epa.gov.
For general information contact: The
TSCA-Hotline, ABVI-Goodwill, 422
South Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY
14620; telephone number: (202) 554–
1404; email address: TSCA-Hotline@
epa.gov.
SUMMARY:
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you manufacture, process,
or use the chemical substances
contained in this rule. The following list
of North American Industrial
Classification System (NAICS) codes is
not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
provides a guide to help readers
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determine whether this document
applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
• Manufacturers or processors of one
or more subject chemical substances
(NAICS codes 325 and 324110), e.g.,
chemical manufacturing and petroleum
refineries.
This action may also affect certain
entities through pre-existing import
certification and export notification
rules under TSCA. Chemical importers
are subject to the TSCA section 13 (15
U.S.C. 2612) import provisions
promulgated at 19 CFR 12.118 through
12.127 and 19 CFR 127.28. Chemical
importers must certify that the shipment
of the chemical substance complies with
all applicable rules and orders under
TSCA, which would include the SNUR
requirements. The EPA policy in
support of import certification appears
at 40 CFR part 707, subpart B. In
addition, any persons who export or
intend to export a chemical substance
that is the subject of this rule are subject
to the export notification provisions of
TSCA section 12(b) (15 U.S.C. 2611(b))
and 40 CFR 721.20, and must comply
with the export notification
requirements in 40 CFR part 707,
subpart D.
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B. How can I access the docket?
The docket includes information
considered by the Agency in developing
the proposed and final rules. The docket
for this action, identified by docket
identification (ID) number EPA–HQ–
OPPT–2019–0263, is available at https://
www.regulations.gov or at the Office of
Pollution Prevention and Toxics Docket
(OPPT Docket), Environmental
Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/
DC), West William Jefferson Clinton
Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave.
NW, Washington, DC. The Public
Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to
4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday,
excluding legal holidays. The telephone
number for the Public Reading Room is
(202) 566–1744, and the telephone
number for the OPPT Docket is (202)
566–0280.
Due to the public health concerns
related to COVID–19, the EPA Docket
Center (EPA/DC) and Reading Room is
closed to visitors with limited
exceptions. The staff continues to
provide remote customer service via
email, phone, and webform. For the
latest status information on EPA/DC
services and docket access, visit https://
www.epa.gov/dockets.
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II. Background
A. What action is the Agency taking?
EPA is issuing amendments to the
SNURs for certain chemical substances
in 40 CFR part 721, subpart E. A SNUR
for a chemical substance designates
certain activities as a significant new
use. Persons who intend to manufacture
or process the chemical substance for
the significant new use must notify EPA
at least 90 days before commencing that
activity. The required notification (i.e.,
a SNUN) initiates EPA’s evaluation of
the intended use within the applicable
review period. Manufacture and
processing for the significant new use
may not commence until EPA has
conducted a review of the notice, made
an appropriate determination on the
notice, and taken such actions as are
required with that determination.
Previously, in the Federal Register of
April 1, 2020 (85 FR 18173; FRL–
10004–51), EPA proposed amendments
to the SNURs for these chemical
substances and established the record
for these SNUR amendments in the
docket under docket ID number EPA–
HQ–OPPT–2019–0614. That docket
includes information considered by the
Agency in developing the proposed and
final rules, including public comments
and EPA’s responses to the public
comments received.
B. What is the Agency’s authority for
taking this action?
TSCA section 5(a)(2) (15 U.S.C.
2604(a)(2)) authorizes EPA to determine
that a use of a chemical substance is a
‘‘significant new use.’’ EPA must make
this determination by rule (i.e., a SNUR)
after considering all relevant factors,
including those listed in TSCA section
5(a)(2). EPA may also amend a SNUR
promulgated under TSCA section
5(a)(2). Procedures and criteria for
modifying or revoking SNUR
requirements appear at 40 CFR 721.185.
C. How do the general SNUR provisions
apply to this action?
General provisions for SNURs appear
in 40 CFR part 721, subpart A. These
provisions describe persons subject to
the final rule, recordkeeping
requirements, exemptions to reporting
requirements, and applicability of the
rule to uses occurring before the
effective date of the final rule.
Provisions relating to user fees appear at
40 CFR part 700. According to 40 CFR
721.1(c), persons subject to these SNURs
must comply with the same notice
requirements and EPA regulatory
procedures as submitters of PMNs under
TSCA section 5(a)(1)(A). In particular,
these requirements include the
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information submission requirements of
TSCA sections 5(b) and 5(d)(1), the
exemptions authorized by TSCA
sections 5(h)(1), (h)(2), (h)(3), and (h)(5),
and the regulations at 40 CFR part 720.
Once EPA receives a SNUN, EPA must
either determine that the significant
new use is not likely to present an
unreasonable risk of injury or take such
regulatory action as is associated with
an alternative determination before the
manufacture or processing for the
significant new use can commence. If
EPA determines that the significant new
use is not likely to present an
unreasonable risk, EPA is required
under TSCA section 5(g) to make public,
and submit for publication in the
Federal Register, a statement of EPA’s
findings.
III. Significant New Use Determination
A. Considerations for Significant New
Use Determinations
TSCA section 5(a)(2) states that EPA’s
determination that a use of a chemical
substance is a significant new use must
be made after consideration of all
relevant factors, including:
• The projected volume of
manufacturing and processing of a
chemical substance.
• The extent to which a use changes
the type or form of exposure of human
beings or the environment to a chemical
substance.
• The extent to which a use increases
the magnitude and duration of exposure
of human beings or the environment to
a chemical substance.
• The reasonably anticipated manner
and methods of manufacturing,
processing, distribution in commerce,
and disposal of a chemical substance.
In determining whether and how to
modify the significant new uses for the
chemical substances that are the subject
of these SNURs, and as described in the
preamble to the proposed rule, EPA
considered relevant information about
the toxicity of the chemical substance,
likely human exposures and
environmental releases associated with
possible uses, and the four TSCA
section 5(a)(2) factors listed in this unit.
B. Procedures for Significant New Uses
Claimed as CBI
By this rule, EPA is establishing
certain significant new uses which have
been claimed as CBI subject to Agency
confidentiality regulations at 40 CFR
part 2 and 40 CFR part 720, subpart E.
Absent a final determination or other
disposition of the confidentiality claim
under 40 CFR part 2 procedures, EPA is
required to keep this information
confidential. EPA promulgated a
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procedure to deal with the situation
where a specific significant new use is
CBI, at 40 CFR 721.1725(b)(1) and has
referenced it to apply to other SNURs.
Under these procedures a
manufacturer or processor may request
EPA to determine whether a specific use
would be a significant new use under
the rule. The manufacturer or processor
must show that it has a bona fide intent
to manufacture or process the chemical
substance and must identify the specific
use for which it intends to manufacture
or process the chemical substance. If
EPA concludes that the person has
shown a bona fide intent to manufacture
or process the chemical substance, EPA
will tell the person whether the use
identified in the bona fide submission
would be a significant new use under
the rule. Since most of the chemical
identities of the chemical substances
subject to these SNURs are also CBI,
manufacturers and processors can
combine the bona fide submission
under the procedure in 40 CFR
721.1725(b)(1) with that under 40 CFR
721.11 into a single step.
If EPA determines that the use
identified in the bona fide submission
would not be a significant new use, i.e.,
the use does not meet the criteria
specified in the rule for a significant
new use, that person can manufacture or
process the chemical substance so long
as the significant new use trigger is not
met. In the case of a production volume
trigger, this means that the aggregate
annual production volume does not
exceed that identified in the bona fide
submission to EPA. Because of
confidentiality concerns, EPA does not
typically disclose the actual production
volume that constitutes the use trigger.
Thus, if the person later intends to
exceed that volume, a new bona fide
submission would be necessary to
determine whether that higher volume
would be a significant new use.
IV. Public Comments on Proposed Rule
and EPA Responses
EPA received three public comments
on the proposed amendments. The
Agency’s responses to these comments
are provided in a separate Response to
Public Comments document that is
available in the docket for this rule. EPA
made one change to the final rule
amending 40 CFR 721.10663 based on
one comment. Specifically, EPA added
language used in previous SNURs for
other carbon nanotube chemicals
identifying criteria where SNUR
requirements do not apply. EPA agrees
with the commenter that when the
chemical substance meets any of these
criteria, there is no unreasonable risk
from exposure to the substance.
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V. Rationale of the Final Rule
These amendments are based on
EPA’s determination under 40 CFR
721.185(a)(3) following review of
significant new use notices (SNUNs) for
the chemical substances submitted to
EPA. After reviewing the SNUNs, EPA
concluded that there is no need to
require additional notice from persons
who propose to engage in identical or
similar activities. In those instances
where EPA expanded the scope of the
significant new use, the Agency
identified concerns during review of the
SNUNs, as discussed in Unit IV. of the
proposed rule, associated with certain
potential new uses. In addition to
considering the factors discussed in
Unit IV. of the proposed rule, EPA
determined that those uses could result
in changes in the type or form of
exposure to the chemical substance,
increased exposures to the chemical
substance, and/or changes in the
reasonably anticipated manner and
methods of manufacturing, processing,
distribution in commerce, and disposal
of the chemical substance.
VI. Applicability of Rule to Uses
Occurring Before Effective Date of the
Final Rule
To establish a significant new use,
EPA must determine that the use is not
ongoing. EPA made this determination
in issuing the original final rule for each
chemical substance, and solicited
additional comments on the proposed
modifications to provide an opportunity
for members of the public to indicate
whether any of the uses which are not
significant new uses under the current
rules, but which would be regulated as
‘‘significant new uses’’ if the proposed
rule is finalized, are ongoing. EPA
received no comments that these uses
were ongoing. Therefore, EPA concludes
that the uses are not ongoing and
designated April 1, 2020 (the date of
publication of the proposed rule) as the
cutoff date for determining whether the
new use is ongoing.
In the unlikely event that a person
began commercial manufacture or
processing of the chemical substances
for a significant new use identified as of
the cutoff date, that person will have to
cease any such activity upon the
effective date of the final rule. To
resume their activities, that person
would have to first comply with all
applicable SNUR notification
requirements and wait until EPA has
conducted a review of the notice, made
an appropriate determination on the
notice, and has taken such actions as are
required with that determination.
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VII. Development and Submission of
Information
EPA recognizes that TSCA section 5
generally does not require development
of any particular new information (e.g.,
generating test data) before submission
of a SNUN. There is an exception: If a
person is required to submit information
for a chemical substance pursuant to a
rule, order or consent agreement under
TSCA section 4, then TSCA section
5(b)(1)(A) requires such information to
be submitted to EPA at the time of
submission of the SNUN.
In the absence of an applicable rule,
order or consent agreement under TSCA
section 4, or a TSCA section 5(b)(4)
listing covering the chemical substance,
persons are required only to submit
information in their possession or
control and to describe any other
information known to or reasonably
ascertainable by them (see 40 CFR
720.50). However, upon review of PMNs
and SNUNs, the Agency has the
authority to require appropriate testing.
Unit IV. of the proposed rule lists
potentially useful information for all
SNURs addressed in this final rule.
Descriptions are provided for
informational purposes. The
information identified in Unit IV. of the
proposed rule will be potentially useful
to EPA’s evaluation of a chemical
substance in the event that someone
submits a SNUN for a significant new
use pursuant to the SNURs addressed in
this final rule. Companies who are
considering submitting a SNUN are
encouraged, but are not required, to
develop the potentially useful
information on the substance.
EPA strongly encourages persons,
before performing any testing, to consult
with the Agency. Furthermore, pursuant
to TSCA section 4(h), which pertains to
reduction of testing on vertebrate
animals, EPA encourages consultation
with the Agency on the use of
alternative test methods and strategies
(also called New Approach
Methodologies, or NAMs), if available,
to generate the recommended test data.
EPA encourages dialogue with Agency
representatives to help determine how
best the submitter can meet both the
data needs and the objective of TSCA
section 4(h).
The potentially useful information
identified in Unit IV. of the proposed
rule may not be the only means of
addressing the potential risks of the
chemical substance. However,
submitting a SNUN without any test
data or other information may increase
the likelihood that EPA will take action
under TSCA sections 5(e) or 5(f). EPA
recommends that potential SNUN
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submitters contact EPA early enough to
provide time for conducting appropriate
tests.
SNUN submitters should be aware
that EPA will be better able to evaluate
SNUNs that provide detailed
information on the following:
• Human exposure and
environmental release that may result
from the significant new use of the
chemical substances; and
• Information on risks posed by the
chemical substances compared to risks
posed by potential substitutes.
VIII. SNUN Submissions
According to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons
submitting a SNUN must comply with
the same notification requirements and
EPA regulatory procedures as persons
submitting a PMN under 40 CFR part
720, including submission of test data
on health and environmental effects as
described in 40 CFR 720.50. SNUNs
must be submitted on EPA Form No.
7710–25, generated using e-PMN
software, and submitted to the Agency
in accordance with the procedures set
forth in 40 CFR 721.25 and 720.40. E–
PMN software is available electronically
at https://www.epa.gov/reviewing-newchemicals-under-toxic-substancescontrol-act-tsca.
IX. Economic Analysis
EPA has evaluated the potential costs
of establishing SNUN requirements for
potential manufacturers and processors
of the chemical substances subject to
this rule. EPA’s complete economic
analysis is available in the docket under
docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPPT–
2019–0614.
X. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
Additional information about these
statutes and Executive Orders can be
found at https://www.epa.gov/lawsregulations-and-executive-orders.
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A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory
Planning and Review and Executive
Order 13563: Improving Regulations
and Regulatory Review
This action modifies SNURs for
several chemical substances that were
the subject of PMNs and SNUNs. The
Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) has exempted these types of
actions from review under Executive
Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4,
1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821, January
21, 2011).
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B. Executive Order 13771: Reducing
Regulations and Controlling Regulatory
Costs
This action is not subject to Executive
Order 13771 (82 FR 9339, February 3,
2017), because this action is not a
significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866.
C. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
This action does not impose any new
information collection burden under the
PRA (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). Burden is
defined in 5 CFR 1320.3(b). The
information collection activities
associated with new chemical SNURs
have already been approved under OMB
control number 2070–0012 (EPA ICR
No. 0574). This action does not impose
any burden requiring additional OMB
approval.
An agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to a collection of information
that requires OMB approval under PRA,
unless it has been approved by OMB
and displays a currently valid OMB
control number. The OMB control
numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40
of the CFR, after appearing in the
Federal Register, are listed in 40 CFR
part 9, and included on the related
collection instrument or form, if
applicable. This listing of the OMB
control numbers and their subsequent
codification in the CFR satisfies the
display requirements of PRA and OMB’s
implementing regulations at 5 CFR part
1320.
If an entity were to submit a SNUN to
the Agency, the annual burden is
estimated to average between 30 and
170 hours per response. This burden
estimate includes the time needed to
review instructions, search existing data
sources, gather and maintain the data
needed, and complete, review, and
submit the required SNUN. Send any
comments about the accuracy of the
burden estimate, and any suggested
methods for minimizing respondent
burden, including through the use of
automated collection techniques, to the
Director, Regulatory Support Division,
Office of Mission Support (2822T),
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
20460–0001. Please remember to
include the OMB control number in any
correspondence, but do not submit any
completed forms to this address.
D. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
Pursuant to the RFA section 605(b) (5
U.S.C. 601 et seq.), the Agency hereby
certifies that promulgation of these
SNUR modifications will not have a
significant adverse economic impact on
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a substantial number of small entities.
The requirement to submit a SNUN
applies to any person (including small
or large entities) who intends to engage
in any activity described in the final
rule as a ‘‘significant new use.’’ Because
these uses are ‘‘new’’ based on all
information currently available to EPA,
EPA has concluded that no small or
large entities presently engage in such
activities. A SNUR requires that any
person who intends to engage in such
activity in the future must first notify
EPA by submitting a SNUN. Although
some small entities may decide to
pursue a significant new use in the
future, EPA cannot presently determine
how many, if any, there may be.
However, EPA’s experience to date is
that, in response to the promulgation of
SNURs covering over 1,000 chemicals,
the Agency receives only a small
number of notices per year. For
example, EPA received 7 SNUNs in
Federal fiscal year (FY) 2013, 13 in
FY2014, 6 in FY2015, 10 in FY2016, 14
in FY2017, and 11 in FY2018 and only
a fraction of these were from small
businesses. In addition, the Agency
currently offers relief to qualifying small
businesses by reducing the SNUN
submission fee from $16,000 to $2,800.
This lower fee reduces the total
reporting and recordkeeping of cost of
submitting a SNUN to about $10,116 for
qualifying small firms. Therefore, the
potential economic impacts of
complying with this SNUR are not
expected to be significant or adversely
impact a substantial number of small
entities. In a SNUR that published in the
Federal Register of June 2, 1997 (62 FR
29684) (FRL–5597–1), the Agency
presented its general determination that
final SNURs are not expected to have a
significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities,
which was provided to the Chief
Counsel for Advocacy of the Small
Business Administration.
E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
(UMRA)
Based on EPA’s experience with
proposing and finalizing SNURs, State,
local, and Tribal governments have not
been impacted by these rulemakings,
and EPA does not have any reasons to
believe that any State, local, or Tribal
government will be impacted by this
action. As such, EPA has determined
that this action does not impose any
enforceable duty, contain any unfunded
mandate, or otherwise have any effect
on small governments subject to the
requirements of UMRA sections 202,
203, 204, or 205 (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
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F. Executive Order 13132: Federalism
This action will not have a substantial
direct effect on States, on the
relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government, as specified in
Executive Order 13132, entitled
‘‘Federalism’’ (64 FR 43255, August 10,
1999).
G. Executive Order 13175: Consultation
and Coordination With Indian Tribe
Governments
This action does not have Tribal
implications because it is not expected
to have substantial direct effects on
Indian Tribes. This action does not
significantly nor uniquely affect the
communities of Indian Tribal
governments, nor does it involve or
impose any requirements that affect
Indian Tribes. Accordingly, the
requirements of Executive Order 13175
(65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000), do
not apply to this action.
H. Executive Order 13045: Protection of
Children From Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks
This action is not subject to Executive
Order 13045 (62 FR 19885, April 23,
1997), because this is not an
economically significant regulatory
action as defined by Executive Order
12866, and this action does not address
environmental health or safety risks
disproportionately affecting children.
EPA interprets Executive Order 13045
as applying only to those regulatory
actions that concern environmental
health or safety risks that EPA has
reason to believe may
disproportionately affect children, per
the definition of ‘‘covered regulatory
action’’ in section 2–202 of the
Executive Order.
I. Executive Order 13211: Actions
Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use
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This action is not subject to Executive
Order 13211 (66 FR 28355, May 22,
2001), because this action is not
expected to affect energy supply,
distribution, or use and because this
action is not a significant regulatory
action under Executive Order 12866.
J. National Technology Transfer and
Advancement Act (NTTAA)
This action does not involve any
technical standards and is therefore not
subject to considerations under NTTAA
section 12(d) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
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K. Executive Order 12898: Federal
Actions To Address Environmental
Justice in Minority Populations and
Low-Income Populations
This action does not entail special
considerations of environmental justice
related issues as delineated by
Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629,
February 16, 1994).
XI. Congressional Review Act (CRA)
This action is subject to the CRA (5
U.S.C. 801 et seq.), and EPA will submit
a rule report to each House of the
Congress and to the Comptroller General
of the United States. This action is not
a ‘‘major rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C.
804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 721
Environmental protection, Chemicals,
Hazardous substances, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: September 14, 2020.
Tala Henry,
Deputy Director, Office of Pollution
Prevention and Toxics.
Therefore, for the reasons stated in the
preamble, EPA amends 40 CFR part 721
as follows:
PART 721—SIGNIFICANT NEW USES
OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES
1. The authority citation for part 721
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 15 U.S.C. 2604, 2607, and
2625(c).
2. Amend § 721.5185 by revising
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) and (iii) to
read as follows:
■
§ 721.5185 2-Propen-1-one, 1-(4morpholinyl)-.
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified
as 2-propen-1-one, 1-(4-morpholinyl)(PMN P–95–169; SNUN S–08–7; SNUN
S–14–1; and SNUN S–17–10; CAS No.
5117–12–4) is subject to reporting under
this section for the significant new uses
described in paragraph (a)(2) of this
section. The requirements of this rule do
not apply to quantities of the chemical
substance after it has been completely
reacted (cured) because 2-propen-1-one,
1-(4-morpholinyl)- will no longer exist.
(2) * * *
(i) Protection in the workplace.
Requirements as specified in
§ 721.63(a)(1), (a)(2)(i) and (iv), (a)(3)(i)
and (ii), (a)(6)(v), (b), and (c).
(A) Safety 4/4H EVOH/PE laminate,
Ansell Edmont Neoprene number 865,
and Solvex Nitrile Rubber number 275
gloves have been tested in accordance
with the American Society for Testing
Materials (ASTM) F739 method and
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found by EPA to satisfy the consent
orders and § 721.63(a)(2)(i) requirements
for dermal protection to 100 percent
PMN substance. Gloves and other
dermal protection may not be used for
a time period longer than they are
actually tested and must be replaced at
the end of each work shift. For
additional dermal protection materials,
a company must submit all test data to
the Agency and must receive written
Agency approval for each type of
material tested prior to use of that
material as worker dermal protection.
However, for the purposes of
determining the imperviousness of
gloves, up to 1 year after the
commencement of commercial
manufacture or import, the employer
may use the method described in
§ 721.63(a)(3)(ii), thereafter, they must
use the method described in
§ 721.63(a)(3)(i). For purposes of
§ 721.63(b), the concentration is set at
1.0%.
(B) Additional requirements for use as
a monomer for stereolithography:
Requirements as specified in
§ 721.63(a)(4) and (5), (a)(6)(v), and (c).
When determining which persons are
reasonably likely to be exposed as
required for § 721.63(a)(4), engineering
control measures (e.g., enclosure or
confinement of the operation, general
and local ventilation) or administrative
control measures (e.g., workplace
policies and procedures) shall be
considered and implemented to prevent
exposure, where feasible. For purposes
of § 721.63(a)(5), respirators must
provide a National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health
assigned protection factor of at least 50.
*
*
*
*
*
(iii) Industrial, commercial, and
consumer activities. Requirements as
specified in § 721.80(y)(1). It is a
significant new use to use the chemical
substance for any use other than as a
monomer for use in ultraviolet ink jet
applications or stereolithography,
unless the chemical substance is
processed and used in an enclosed
process.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 3. Amend § 721.10371 by revising
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) to read as
follows:
§ 721.10371 Butanoic acid, 3-mercapto,1,1′-[2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-(substituted-1oxoalkoxy)methyl)-1,3-propanediyl] ester
(generic).
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified
generically as butanoic acid, 3mercapto-,1,1′-[2-(hydroxymethyl)-2(substituted-1-oxoalkoxy)methyl)-1,3propanediyl] ester (PMN P–10–136 and
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 208 / Tuesday, October 27, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
S–18–5, Chemical A) is subject to
reporting under this section for the
significant new uses described in
paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) * * *
(i) Industrial, commercial, and
consumer activities. Requirements as
specified in § 721.80(f). It is a significant
new use to use the substance other than
as a monomer for acryl-based ultraviolet (UV)-curing coatings, inks, and
adhesives or the confidential use
described in the significant new use
notice S–18–5.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 4. Amend § 721.10372 by revising
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) to read as
follows:
§ 721.10372 Butanoic acid, 3-mercapto,1,1′-[2,2-bis[(substituted-1oxoalkoxy)methyl]-1,3-propanediyl] ester
(generic).
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(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified
generically as butanoic acid, 3mercapto-,1,1′-[2,2-bis[(substituted-1oxoalkoxy)methyl]-1,3-propanediyl]
ester (PMN P–10–136 and SNUN S–18–
5, Chemical B) is subject to reporting
under this section for the significant
new uses described in paragraph (a)(2)
of this section.
(2) * * *
(i) Industrial, commercial, and
consumer activities. Requirements as
specified in § 721.80(f). It is a significant
new use to use the substance other than
as a monomer for acryl-based ultraviolet (UV)-curing coatings, inks, and
adhesives, or the confidential use
described in the SNUN S–18–5.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 5. Amend § 721.10663 by revising
paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2)(i) and (ii), and
(b)(1) to read as follows:
(i) Protection in the workplace.
Requirements as specified in
§ 721.63(a)(1) and (3) through (6), (b),
and (c). When determining which
persons are reasonably likely to be
exposed as required for § 721.63(a)(1)
and (4), engineering control measures
(e.g., enclosure or confinement of the
operation, general and local ventilation)
or administrative control measures (e.g.,
workplace policies and procedures)
shall be considered and implemented to
prevent exposure, where feasible. For
purposes of § 721.63(a)(5), respirators
must provide a National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) assigned protection factor of at
least 50. For purposes of § 721.63(a)(6),
the airborne form of the substance
includes particulate. For purposes of
§ 721.63(b), concentration is set at 1.0%.
(ii) Industrial, commercial, and
consumer activities. Requirements as
specified in § 721.80(v)(1), (w)(1), and
(x)(1). It is a significant new use to use
the substance other than as a chemical
additive for use in epoxy compounds for
transportation, marine and industrial
coatings, paints and manufactured
goods, for the confidential use described
in PMN P–12–44, or for the confidential
use described in SNUN S–19–5.
(b) * * *
(1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping
requirements as specified in
§ 721.125(a) through (f), (i), and (k) are
applicable to manufacturers, importers,
and processors of this substance.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 6. Amend § 721.10928 by revising
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(iii) to read
as follows:
§ 721.10663 Functionalized multi-walled
carbon nanotubes (generic).
§ 721.10928 Coke (coal), secondary pitch;
a carbon-containing residue from the
coking of air blown pitch coke oil and/or
pitch distillate; composed primarily of
isotropic carbon, it contains small amounts
of sulfur and ash constituents.
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified
generically as functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (PMN P–12–
44; SNUN S–18–4; and SNUN S–19–5)
is subject to reporting under this section
for the significant new uses described in
paragraph (a)(2) of this section. The
requirements of this section do not
apply to quantities of the PMN
substance that have been completely
reacted (cured); incorporated or
embedded into a polymer matrix that
itself has been completely reacted
(cured); embedded in a permanent solid
polymer form that is not intended to
undergo further processing except for
mechanical process; or incorporated
into an article.
(2) * * *
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified
as coke (coal), secondary pitch.
Definition: A carbon-containing residue
from the coking of air blown pitch coke
oil and/or pitch distillate; composed
primarily of isotropic carbon, it contains
small amounts of sulfur and ash
constituents (PMN P–12–292, PMN P–
17–217, and SNUN S–19–4; CAS No.
94113–91–4) is subject to reporting
under this section for the significant
new uses described in paragraph (a)(2)
of this section.
(2) * * *
(iii) Industrial, commercial, and
consumer activities. Requirements as
specified in § 721.80(f), (p), and (y)(1)
and (2). It is a significant new use to use
the substance other than for the
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68001
confidential use permitted by the Order
for P–12–292, as a lubricating agent
used in the production of automotive
disc brakes, or to process as an additive
for the manufacture of diesel particulate
filters to increase the porosity of the
filter. It is a significant new use to use
the substance in an additive formulation
to produce diesel particulate filters
within the United States. For purposes
of § 721.80, the aggregate volume is
2,500,000 kilograms.
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2020–21464 Filed 10–26–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
50 CFR Part 660
[Docket No. 201021–0276]
RIN 0648–BK15
Fisheries Off West Coast States;
Emergency Action To Temporarily
Extend the Primary Sablefish Fishery
Season
National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Temporary rule; emergency
action; request for comments.
AGENCY:
This emergency rule
temporarily extends the 2020 sablefish
primary fishery from October 31, 2020
to December 31, 2020. This action is
necessary to provide operational
flexibility so that vessels in the sablefish
primary fishery are able to fully harvest
their tier limits despite high economic
uncertainty in 2020. This action would
also extend the incidental halibut
retention allowance provision for the
sablefish primary fishery from October
31, 2020 to November 15, 2020 and set
the halibut retention limit during this
time period at 250 pounds (113
kilograms) dressed weight of Pacific
halibut for every 1,000 pounds (454
kilograms) dressed weight of sablefish
landed and up to 2 additional Pacific
halibut in excess of the 250-pounds-per1,000-pound limit per landing.
DATES: Effective October 27, 2020 until
December 31, 2020. Comments must be
submitted by November 27, 2020.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
on this document, identified by NOAA–
NMFS–2020–0133 by any of the
following methods:
• Electronic Submission: Submit all
electronic public comments via the
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\27OCR1.SGM
27OCR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 208 (Tuesday, October 27, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 67996-68001]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-21464]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 721
[EPA-HQ-OPPT-2019-0614; FRL-10013-53]
RIN 2070-AB27
Modification of Significant New Uses of Certain Chemical
Substances (20-1.M)
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: EPA is amending significant new use rules (SNURs) issued under
the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for certain chemical
substances, which were the subject of premanufacture notices (PMNs) and
significant new use notices (SNUNs). As a result of EPA's review of
SNUNs for these chemical substances and based on new and existing data,
EPA is finalizing amendments to these SNURs. Specifically, this action
amends the identified SNURs to allow certain new uses reported in the
SNUNs without additional notification requirements and modify the
significant new use notification requirements based on the actions and
determinations for the SNUN submissions.
DATES: This rule is effective on December 28, 2020. For purposes of
judicial review, this rule shall be promulgated at 1 p.m. (e.s.t.) on
November 10, 2020.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
For technical information contact: William Wysong, Chemical Control
Division (7405M), Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington,
DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (202) 564-4163; email address:
[email protected].
For general information contact: The TSCA-Hotline, ABVI-Goodwill,
422 South Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY 14620; telephone number: (202)
554-1404; email address: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by this action if you manufacture,
process, or use the chemical substances contained in this rule. The
following list of North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a
guide to help readers
[[Page 67997]]
determine whether this document applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
Manufacturers or processors of one or more subject
chemical substances (NAICS codes 325 and 324110), e.g., chemical
manufacturing and petroleum refineries.
This action may also affect certain entities through pre-existing
import certification and export notification rules under TSCA. Chemical
importers are subject to the TSCA section 13 (15 U.S.C. 2612) import
provisions promulgated at 19 CFR 12.118 through 12.127 and 19 CFR
127.28. Chemical importers must certify that the shipment of the
chemical substance complies with all applicable rules and orders under
TSCA, which would include the SNUR requirements. The EPA policy in
support of import certification appears at 40 CFR part 707, subpart B.
In addition, any persons who export or intend to export a chemical
substance that is the subject of this rule are subject to the export
notification provisions of TSCA section 12(b) (15 U.S.C. 2611(b)) and
40 CFR 721.20, and must comply with the export notification
requirements in 40 CFR part 707, subpart D.
B. How can I access the docket?
The docket includes information considered by the Agency in
developing the proposed and final rules. The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2019-0263,
is available at https://www.regulations.gov or at the Office of
Pollution Prevention and Toxics Docket (OPPT Docket), Environmental
Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/DC), West William Jefferson
Clinton Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC. The
Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Public
Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number for the OPPT
Docket is (202) 566-0280.
Due to the public health concerns related to COVID-19, the EPA
Docket Center (EPA/DC) and Reading Room is closed to visitors with
limited exceptions. The staff continues to provide remote customer
service via email, phone, and webform. For the latest status
information on EPA/DC services and docket access, visit https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
II. Background
A. What action is the Agency taking?
EPA is issuing amendments to the SNURs for certain chemical
substances in 40 CFR part 721, subpart E. A SNUR for a chemical
substance designates certain activities as a significant new use.
Persons who intend to manufacture or process the chemical substance for
the significant new use must notify EPA at least 90 days before
commencing that activity. The required notification (i.e., a SNUN)
initiates EPA's evaluation of the intended use within the applicable
review period. Manufacture and processing for the significant new use
may not commence until EPA has conducted a review of the notice, made
an appropriate determination on the notice, and taken such actions as
are required with that determination.
Previously, in the Federal Register of April 1, 2020 (85 FR 18173;
FRL-10004-51), EPA proposed amendments to the SNURs for these chemical
substances and established the record for these SNUR amendments in the
docket under docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2019-0614. That docket
includes information considered by the Agency in developing the
proposed and final rules, including public comments and EPA's responses
to the public comments received.
B. What is the Agency's authority for taking this action?
TSCA section 5(a)(2) (15 U.S.C. 2604(a)(2)) authorizes EPA to
determine that a use of a chemical substance is a ``significant new
use.'' EPA must make this determination by rule (i.e., a SNUR) after
considering all relevant factors, including those listed in TSCA
section 5(a)(2). EPA may also amend a SNUR promulgated under TSCA
section 5(a)(2). Procedures and criteria for modifying or revoking SNUR
requirements appear at 40 CFR 721.185.
C. How do the general SNUR provisions apply to this action?
General provisions for SNURs appear in 40 CFR part 721, subpart A.
These provisions describe persons subject to the final rule,
recordkeeping requirements, exemptions to reporting requirements, and
applicability of the rule to uses occurring before the effective date
of the final rule. Provisions relating to user fees appear at 40 CFR
part 700. According to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons subject to these SNURs
must comply with the same notice requirements and EPA regulatory
procedures as submitters of PMNs under TSCA section 5(a)(1)(A). In
particular, these requirements include the information submission
requirements of TSCA sections 5(b) and 5(d)(1), the exemptions
authorized by TSCA sections 5(h)(1), (h)(2), (h)(3), and (h)(5), and
the regulations at 40 CFR part 720. Once EPA receives a SNUN, EPA must
either determine that the significant new use is not likely to present
an unreasonable risk of injury or take such regulatory action as is
associated with an alternative determination before the manufacture or
processing for the significant new use can commence. If EPA determines
that the significant new use is not likely to present an unreasonable
risk, EPA is required under TSCA section 5(g) to make public, and
submit for publication in the Federal Register, a statement of EPA's
findings.
III. Significant New Use Determination
A. Considerations for Significant New Use Determinations
TSCA section 5(a)(2) states that EPA's determination that a use of
a chemical substance is a significant new use must be made after
consideration of all relevant factors, including:
The projected volume of manufacturing and processing of a
chemical substance.
The extent to which a use changes the type or form of
exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical substance.
The extent to which a use increases the magnitude and
duration of exposure of human beings or the environment to a chemical
substance.
The reasonably anticipated manner and methods of
manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, and disposal of a
chemical substance.
In determining whether and how to modify the significant new uses
for the chemical substances that are the subject of these SNURs, and as
described in the preamble to the proposed rule, EPA considered relevant
information about the toxicity of the chemical substance, likely human
exposures and environmental releases associated with possible uses, and
the four TSCA section 5(a)(2) factors listed in this unit.
B. Procedures for Significant New Uses Claimed as CBI
By this rule, EPA is establishing certain significant new uses
which have been claimed as CBI subject to Agency confidentiality
regulations at 40 CFR part 2 and 40 CFR part 720, subpart E. Absent a
final determination or other disposition of the confidentiality claim
under 40 CFR part 2 procedures, EPA is required to keep this
information confidential. EPA promulgated a
[[Page 67998]]
procedure to deal with the situation where a specific significant new
use is CBI, at 40 CFR 721.1725(b)(1) and has referenced it to apply to
other SNURs.
Under these procedures a manufacturer or processor may request EPA
to determine whether a specific use would be a significant new use
under the rule. The manufacturer or processor must show that it has a
bona fide intent to manufacture or process the chemical substance and
must identify the specific use for which it intends to manufacture or
process the chemical substance. If EPA concludes that the person has
shown a bona fide intent to manufacture or process the chemical
substance, EPA will tell the person whether the use identified in the
bona fide submission would be a significant new use under the rule.
Since most of the chemical identities of the chemical substances
subject to these SNURs are also CBI, manufacturers and processors can
combine the bona fide submission under the procedure in 40 CFR
721.1725(b)(1) with that under 40 CFR 721.11 into a single step.
If EPA determines that the use identified in the bona fide
submission would not be a significant new use, i.e., the use does not
meet the criteria specified in the rule for a significant new use, that
person can manufacture or process the chemical substance so long as the
significant new use trigger is not met. In the case of a production
volume trigger, this means that the aggregate annual production volume
does not exceed that identified in the bona fide submission to EPA.
Because of confidentiality concerns, EPA does not typically disclose
the actual production volume that constitutes the use trigger. Thus, if
the person later intends to exceed that volume, a new bona fide
submission would be necessary to determine whether that higher volume
would be a significant new use.
IV. Public Comments on Proposed Rule and EPA Responses
EPA received three public comments on the proposed amendments. The
Agency's responses to these comments are provided in a separate
Response to Public Comments document that is available in the docket
for this rule. EPA made one change to the final rule amending 40 CFR
721.10663 based on one comment. Specifically, EPA added language used
in previous SNURs for other carbon nanotube chemicals identifying
criteria where SNUR requirements do not apply. EPA agrees with the
commenter that when the chemical substance meets any of these criteria,
there is no unreasonable risk from exposure to the substance.
V. Rationale of the Final Rule
These amendments are based on EPA's determination under 40 CFR
721.185(a)(3) following review of significant new use notices (SNUNs)
for the chemical substances submitted to EPA. After reviewing the
SNUNs, EPA concluded that there is no need to require additional notice
from persons who propose to engage in identical or similar activities.
In those instances where EPA expanded the scope of the significant new
use, the Agency identified concerns during review of the SNUNs, as
discussed in Unit IV. of the proposed rule, associated with certain
potential new uses. In addition to considering the factors discussed in
Unit IV. of the proposed rule, EPA determined that those uses could
result in changes in the type or form of exposure to the chemical
substance, increased exposures to the chemical substance, and/or
changes in the reasonably anticipated manner and methods of
manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, and disposal of
the chemical substance.
VI. Applicability of Rule to Uses Occurring Before Effective Date of
the Final Rule
To establish a significant new use, EPA must determine that the use
is not ongoing. EPA made this determination in issuing the original
final rule for each chemical substance, and solicited additional
comments on the proposed modifications to provide an opportunity for
members of the public to indicate whether any of the uses which are not
significant new uses under the current rules, but which would be
regulated as ``significant new uses'' if the proposed rule is
finalized, are ongoing. EPA received no comments that these uses were
ongoing. Therefore, EPA concludes that the uses are not ongoing and
designated April 1, 2020 (the date of publication of the proposed rule)
as the cutoff date for determining whether the new use is ongoing.
In the unlikely event that a person began commercial manufacture or
processing of the chemical substances for a significant new use
identified as of the cutoff date, that person will have to cease any
such activity upon the effective date of the final rule. To resume
their activities, that person would have to first comply with all
applicable SNUR notification requirements and wait until EPA has
conducted a review of the notice, made an appropriate determination on
the notice, and has taken such actions as are required with that
determination.
VII. Development and Submission of Information
EPA recognizes that TSCA section 5 generally does not require
development of any particular new information (e.g., generating test
data) before submission of a SNUN. There is an exception: If a person
is required to submit information for a chemical substance pursuant to
a rule, order or consent agreement under TSCA section 4, then TSCA
section 5(b)(1)(A) requires such information to be submitted to EPA at
the time of submission of the SNUN.
In the absence of an applicable rule, order or consent agreement
under TSCA section 4, or a TSCA section 5(b)(4) listing covering the
chemical substance, persons are required only to submit information in
their possession or control and to describe any other information known
to or reasonably ascertainable by them (see 40 CFR 720.50). However,
upon review of PMNs and SNUNs, the Agency has the authority to require
appropriate testing.
Unit IV. of the proposed rule lists potentially useful information
for all SNURs addressed in this final rule. Descriptions are provided
for informational purposes. The information identified in Unit IV. of
the proposed rule will be potentially useful to EPA's evaluation of a
chemical substance in the event that someone submits a SNUN for a
significant new use pursuant to the SNURs addressed in this final rule.
Companies who are considering submitting a SNUN are encouraged, but are
not required, to develop the potentially useful information on the
substance.
EPA strongly encourages persons, before performing any testing, to
consult with the Agency. Furthermore, pursuant to TSCA section 4(h),
which pertains to reduction of testing on vertebrate animals, EPA
encourages consultation with the Agency on the use of alternative test
methods and strategies (also called New Approach Methodologies, or
NAMs), if available, to generate the recommended test data. EPA
encourages dialogue with Agency representatives to help determine how
best the submitter can meet both the data needs and the objective of
TSCA section 4(h).
The potentially useful information identified in Unit IV. of the
proposed rule may not be the only means of addressing the potential
risks of the chemical substance. However, submitting a SNUN without any
test data or other information may increase the likelihood that EPA
will take action under TSCA sections 5(e) or 5(f). EPA recommends that
potential SNUN
[[Page 67999]]
submitters contact EPA early enough to provide time for conducting
appropriate tests.
SNUN submitters should be aware that EPA will be better able to
evaluate SNUNs that provide detailed information on the following:
Human exposure and environmental release that may result
from the significant new use of the chemical substances; and
Information on risks posed by the chemical substances
compared to risks posed by potential substitutes.
VIII. SNUN Submissions
According to 40 CFR 721.1(c), persons submitting a SNUN must comply
with the same notification requirements and EPA regulatory procedures
as persons submitting a PMN under 40 CFR part 720, including submission
of test data on health and environmental effects as described in 40 CFR
720.50. SNUNs must be submitted on EPA Form No. 7710-25, generated
using e-PMN software, and submitted to the Agency in accordance with
the procedures set forth in 40 CFR 721.25 and 720.40. E-PMN software is
available electronically at https://www.epa.gov/reviewing-new-chemicals-under-toxic-substances-control-act-tsca.
IX. Economic Analysis
EPA has evaluated the potential costs of establishing SNUN
requirements for potential manufacturers and processors of the chemical
substances subject to this rule. EPA's complete economic analysis is
available in the docket under docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2019-0614.
X. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
Additional information about these statutes and Executive Orders
can be found at https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations-and-executive-orders.
A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review and Executive
Order 13563: Improving Regulations and Regulatory Review
This action modifies SNURs for several chemical substances that
were the subject of PMNs and SNUNs. The Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) has exempted these types of actions from review under Executive
Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821,
January 21, 2011).
B. Executive Order 13771: Reducing Regulations and Controlling
Regulatory Costs
This action is not subject to Executive Order 13771 (82 FR 9339,
February 3, 2017), because this action is not a significant regulatory
action under Executive Order 12866.
C. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
This action does not impose any new information collection burden
under the PRA (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). Burden is defined in 5 CFR
1320.3(b). The information collection activities associated with new
chemical SNURs have already been approved under OMB control number
2070-0012 (EPA ICR No. 0574). This action does not impose any burden
requiring additional OMB approval.
An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required
to respond to a collection of information that requires OMB approval
under PRA, unless it has been approved by OMB and displays a currently
valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations
in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register, are
listed in 40 CFR part 9, and included on the related collection
instrument or form, if applicable. This listing of the OMB control
numbers and their subsequent codification in the CFR satisfies the
display requirements of PRA and OMB's implementing regulations at 5 CFR
part 1320.
If an entity were to submit a SNUN to the Agency, the annual burden
is estimated to average between 30 and 170 hours per response. This
burden estimate includes the time needed to review instructions, search
existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed, and
complete, review, and submit the required SNUN. Send any comments about
the accuracy of the burden estimate, and any suggested methods for
minimizing respondent burden, including through the use of automated
collection techniques, to the Director, Regulatory Support Division,
Office of Mission Support (2822T), Environmental Protection Agency,
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460-0001. Please remember
to include the OMB control number in any correspondence, but do not
submit any completed forms to this address.
D. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
Pursuant to the RFA section 605(b) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), the
Agency hereby certifies that promulgation of these SNUR modifications
will not have a significant adverse economic impact on a substantial
number of small entities. The requirement to submit a SNUN applies to
any person (including small or large entities) who intends to engage in
any activity described in the final rule as a ``significant new use.''
Because these uses are ``new'' based on all information currently
available to EPA, EPA has concluded that no small or large entities
presently engage in such activities. A SNUR requires that any person
who intends to engage in such activity in the future must first notify
EPA by submitting a SNUN. Although some small entities may decide to
pursue a significant new use in the future, EPA cannot presently
determine how many, if any, there may be. However, EPA's experience to
date is that, in response to the promulgation of SNURs covering over
1,000 chemicals, the Agency receives only a small number of notices per
year. For example, EPA received 7 SNUNs in Federal fiscal year (FY)
2013, 13 in FY2014, 6 in FY2015, 10 in FY2016, 14 in FY2017, and 11 in
FY2018 and only a fraction of these were from small businesses. In
addition, the Agency currently offers relief to qualifying small
businesses by reducing the SNUN submission fee from $16,000 to $2,800.
This lower fee reduces the total reporting and recordkeeping of cost of
submitting a SNUN to about $10,116 for qualifying small firms.
Therefore, the potential economic impacts of complying with this SNUR
are not expected to be significant or adversely impact a substantial
number of small entities. In a SNUR that published in the Federal
Register of June 2, 1997 (62 FR 29684) (FRL-5597-1), the Agency
presented its general determination that final SNURs are not expected
to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small
entities, which was provided to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the
Small Business Administration.
E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)
Based on EPA's experience with proposing and finalizing SNURs,
State, local, and Tribal governments have not been impacted by these
rulemakings, and EPA does not have any reasons to believe that any
State, local, or Tribal government will be impacted by this action. As
such, EPA has determined that this action does not impose any
enforceable duty, contain any unfunded mandate, or otherwise have any
effect on small governments subject to the requirements of UMRA
sections 202, 203, 204, or 205 (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
[[Page 68000]]
F. Executive Order 13132: Federalism
This action will not have a substantial direct effect on States, on
the relationship between the national government and the States, or on
the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels
of government, as specified in Executive Order 13132, entitled
``Federalism'' (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999).
G. Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian
Tribe Governments
This action does not have Tribal implications because it is not
expected to have substantial direct effects on Indian Tribes. This
action does not significantly nor uniquely affect the communities of
Indian Tribal governments, nor does it involve or impose any
requirements that affect Indian Tribes. Accordingly, the requirements
of Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000), do not apply
to this action.
H. Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental
Health Risks and Safety Risks
This action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 19885,
April 23, 1997), because this is not an economically significant
regulatory action as defined by Executive Order 12866, and this action
does not address environmental health or safety risks
disproportionately affecting children. EPA interprets Executive Order
13045 as applying only to those regulatory actions that concern
environmental health or safety risks that EPA has reason to believe may
disproportionately affect children, per the definition of ``covered
regulatory action'' in section 2-202 of the Executive Order.
I. Executive Order 13211: Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use
This action is not subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355,
May 22, 2001), because this action is not expected to affect energy
supply, distribution, or use and because this action is not a
significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866.
J. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)
This action does not involve any technical standards and is
therefore not subject to considerations under NTTAA section 12(d) (15
U.S.C. 272 note).
K. Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions To Address Environmental
Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations
This action does not entail special considerations of environmental
justice related issues as delineated by Executive Order 12898 (59 FR
7629, February 16, 1994).
XI. Congressional Review Act (CRA)
This action is subject to the CRA (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), and EPA
will submit a rule report to each House of the Congress and to the
Comptroller General of the United States. This action is not a ``major
rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 721
Environmental protection, Chemicals, Hazardous substances,
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: September 14, 2020.
Tala Henry,
Deputy Director, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics.
Therefore, for the reasons stated in the preamble, EPA amends 40
CFR part 721 as follows:
PART 721--SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES
0
1. The authority citation for part 721 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 15 U.S.C. 2604, 2607, and 2625(c).
0
2. Amend Sec. 721.5185 by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) and
(iii) to read as follows:
Sec. 721.5185 2-Propen-1-one, 1-(4-morpholinyl)-.
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified as 2-propen-1-one, 1-(4-
morpholinyl)- (PMN P-95-169; SNUN S-08-7; SNUN S-14-1; and SNUN S-17-
10; CAS No. 5117-12-4) is subject to reporting under this section for
the significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
The requirements of this rule do not apply to quantities of the
chemical substance after it has been completely reacted (cured) because
2-propen-1-one, 1-(4-morpholinyl)- will no longer exist.
(2) * * *
(i) Protection in the workplace. Requirements as specified in Sec.
721.63(a)(1), (a)(2)(i) and (iv), (a)(3)(i) and (ii), (a)(6)(v), (b),
and (c).
(A) Safety 4/4H EVOH/PE laminate, Ansell Edmont Neoprene number
865, and Solvex Nitrile Rubber number 275 gloves have been tested in
accordance with the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) F739
method and found by EPA to satisfy the consent orders and Sec.
721.63(a)(2)(i) requirements for dermal protection to 100 percent PMN
substance. Gloves and other dermal protection may not be used for a
time period longer than they are actually tested and must be replaced
at the end of each work shift. For additional dermal protection
materials, a company must submit all test data to the Agency and must
receive written Agency approval for each type of material tested prior
to use of that material as worker dermal protection. However, for the
purposes of determining the imperviousness of gloves, up to 1 year
after the commencement of commercial manufacture or import, the
employer may use the method described in Sec. 721.63(a)(3)(ii),
thereafter, they must use the method described in Sec.
721.63(a)(3)(i). For purposes of Sec. 721.63(b), the concentration is
set at 1.0%.
(B) Additional requirements for use as a monomer for
stereolithography: Requirements as specified in Sec. 721.63(a)(4) and
(5), (a)(6)(v), and (c). When determining which persons are reasonably
likely to be exposed as required for Sec. 721.63(a)(4), engineering
control measures (e.g., enclosure or confinement of the operation,
general and local ventilation) or administrative control measures
(e.g., workplace policies and procedures) shall be considered and
implemented to prevent exposure, where feasible. For purposes of Sec.
721.63(a)(5), respirators must provide a National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health assigned protection factor of at least
50.
* * * * *
(iii) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements
as specified in Sec. 721.80(y)(1). It is a significant new use to use
the chemical substance for any use other than as a monomer for use in
ultraviolet ink jet applications or stereolithography, unless the
chemical substance is processed and used in an enclosed process.
* * * * *
0
3. Amend Sec. 721.10371 by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) to
read as follows:
Sec. 721.10371 Butanoic acid, 3-mercapto-,1,1'-[2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-
(substituted-1-oxoalkoxy)methyl)-1,3-propanediyl] ester (generic).
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified generically as butanoic acid,
3-mercapto-,1,1'-[2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-(substituted-1-oxoalkoxy)methyl)-
1,3-propanediyl] ester (PMN P-10-136 and
[[Page 68001]]
S-18-5, Chemical A) is subject to reporting under this section for the
significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) * * *
(i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements
as specified in Sec. 721.80(f). It is a significant new use to use the
substance other than as a monomer for acryl-based ultra-violet (UV)-
curing coatings, inks, and adhesives or the confidential use described
in the significant new use notice S-18-5.
* * * * *
0
4. Amend Sec. 721.10372 by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(i) to
read as follows:
Sec. 721.10372 Butanoic acid, 3-mercapto-,1,1'-[2,2-bis[(substituted-
1-oxoalkoxy)methyl]-1,3-propanediyl] ester (generic).
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified generically as butanoic acid,
3-mercapto-,1,1'-[2,2-bis[(substituted-1-oxoalkoxy)methyl]-1,3-
propanediyl] ester (PMN P-10-136 and SNUN S-18-5, Chemical B) is
subject to reporting under this section for the significant new uses
described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) * * *
(i) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements
as specified in Sec. 721.80(f). It is a significant new use to use the
substance other than as a monomer for acryl-based ultra-violet (UV)-
curing coatings, inks, and adhesives, or the confidential use described
in the SNUN S-18-5.
* * * * *
0
5. Amend Sec. 721.10663 by revising paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2)(i) and
(ii), and (b)(1) to read as follows:
Sec. 721.10663 Functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes
(generic).
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified generically as functionalized
multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PMN P-12-44; SNUN S-18-4; and SNUN S-19-
5) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new
uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. The requirements of
this section do not apply to quantities of the PMN substance that have
been completely reacted (cured); incorporated or embedded into a
polymer matrix that itself has been completely reacted (cured);
embedded in a permanent solid polymer form that is not intended to
undergo further processing except for mechanical process; or
incorporated into an article.
(2) * * *
(i) Protection in the workplace. Requirements as specified in Sec.
721.63(a)(1) and (3) through (6), (b), and (c). When determining which
persons are reasonably likely to be exposed as required for Sec.
721.63(a)(1) and (4), engineering control measures (e.g., enclosure or
confinement of the operation, general and local ventilation) or
administrative control measures (e.g., workplace policies and
procedures) shall be considered and implemented to prevent exposure,
where feasible. For purposes of Sec. 721.63(a)(5), respirators must
provide a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
assigned protection factor of at least 50. For purposes of Sec.
721.63(a)(6), the airborne form of the substance includes particulate.
For purposes of Sec. 721.63(b), concentration is set at 1.0%.
(ii) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements
as specified in Sec. 721.80(v)(1), (w)(1), and (x)(1). It is a
significant new use to use the substance other than as a chemical
additive for use in epoxy compounds for transportation, marine and
industrial coatings, paints and manufactured goods, for the
confidential use described in PMN P-12-44, or for the confidential use
described in SNUN S-19-5.
(b) * * *
(1) Recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements as specified in Sec.
721.125(a) through (f), (i), and (k) are applicable to manufacturers,
importers, and processors of this substance.
* * * * *
0
6. Amend Sec. 721.10928 by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(iii)
to read as follows:
Sec. 721.10928 Coke (coal), secondary pitch; a carbon-containing
residue from the coking of air blown pitch coke oil and/or pitch
distillate; composed primarily of isotropic carbon, it contains small
amounts of sulfur and ash constituents.
(a) * * *
(1) The chemical substance identified as coke (coal), secondary
pitch. Definition: A carbon-containing residue from the coking of air
blown pitch coke oil and/or pitch distillate; composed primarily of
isotropic carbon, it contains small amounts of sulfur and ash
constituents (PMN P-12-292, PMN P-17-217, and SNUN S-19-4; CAS No.
94113-91-4) is subject to reporting under this section for the
significant new uses described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) * * *
(iii) Industrial, commercial, and consumer activities. Requirements
as specified in Sec. 721.80(f), (p), and (y)(1) and (2). It is a
significant new use to use the substance other than for the
confidential use permitted by the Order for P-12-292, as a lubricating
agent used in the production of automotive disc brakes, or to process
as an additive for the manufacture of diesel particulate filters to
increase the porosity of the filter. It is a significant new use to use
the substance in an additive formulation to produce diesel particulate
filters within the United States. For purposes of Sec. 721.80, the
aggregate volume is 2,500,000 kilograms.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2020-21464 Filed 10-26-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P