EPA’s Draft Risk Assessment Downplays Toxic Flame Retardant, Advocates Claim Manipulation

Environmental advocates accuse the EPA of skewing its draft risk assessment for tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a highly toxic flame retardant present in electronics, textiles and household items. While European bodies and the International Agency for Research on Cancer consider TBBPA a probable carcinogen, the EPA’s document asserts no unreasonable risk to consumers or children and recommends no new restrictions. Critics say the agency relied heavily on industry-sponsored research, including a short-term dust study by the American Chemistry Council and a 2015 Toxicology Excellence for Risk Assessment report, which they argue understate real exposure.

Earthjustice highlighted the EPA’s claim that TBBPA is “unlikely to be used in fabrics and textiles,” a statement contradicted by other EPA findings and state records showing its presence in children’s clothing and strollers. The draft assessment also faces scrutiny for a Science Advisory Committee populated by industry-aligned scientists, raising conflict-of-interest concerns. If finalized, the assessment will shape regulatory limits, but opponents fear it will leave the public, especially young children, inadequately protected.