On July 30, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a request for public comment on the potential regulation of perchloroethylene (PCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). PCE is a widely used chlorinated solvent found in numerous industrial applications, including vapor degreasing, precision cleaning, adhesives, coatings, and intermediate chemical manufacturing.
Although no new regulatory restrictions are being proposed, EPA is collecting stakeholder input to inform possible future rulemaking that could limit or prohibit certain manufacturing, processing, or uses of PCE. In late 2024, pursuant to Section 6 of TSCA, EPA issued a final risk management rule for PCE, which was ultimately appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. In May of 2025, EPA filed a declaration with the Court stating it would reconsider the final rule and, as part of this process, solicit early stakeholder input.
The current request for public comment specifically seeks input on the following:
- The Existing Chemical Exposure Limit (ECEL) of 0.14 ppm as an 8-hour time weighted average in the Workplace Chemical Protection Plan (WCPP);
- Conditions of use EPA may consider as opposed to imposing a prohibition (e.g. current workplace controls used and other information on how risk associated with PCE is currently mitigated); and
- The use of PCE in industrial dry cleaning processes including workplace controls and use of PCE alternatives.
Given PCE’s prevalence in various industrial settings, manufacturers should consider how future restrictions under TSCA could affect their operations, compliance planning, and product lines. Interested industry participants have an opportunity to shape the regulatory outcome by submitting data and practical insights during the comment period. Comments must be received by August 29, 2025.
