LEESBURG, VA - Tom Julia, president of the Composite Panel Association, discusses the importance of industry input into the EPA's federal regulation for formaldehyde emissions.

On Oct. 8, CPA submitted its final comments to the EPA regarding the agency’s proposed implementation of the Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act. Among them: product coverage must be carefully defined; a reasonable de minimis exemption is required; a performance-based approach to resin technology is required; and confidential business information must be protected.

The next day, the Federal Wood Industries Coalition (FWIC) also submitted its final letter to EPA addressing concerns on the agency’s proposed “Implementation Rule” of the Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act. According to a news release, the letter submitted by FWIC "advocates for a specific de minimis exemption; the replacement of EPA’s proposal for non-complying lots with a 72-hour notice provision; and the protection of confidential business information. The coalition also praises the EPA’s approach to limiting downstream responsibilities for non-panel manufacturers."

CPA convened the FWIC last year to represent the manufacturers and users of composite wood products. The signatories on the Oct. 9 letter include: American Chemistry Council; American Home Furnishings Alliance; APA – The Engineered Wood Association; Association of Woodworking & Furnishing Suppliers; Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association; Composite Panel Association; European Panel Federation; International Wood Products Association; Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association; Moulding & Millwork Producers Association; National Association of Music Merchants; National Retail Federation; and National Wood Flooring Association.

See related article: Wood Groups Protest EPA Proposed Formaldehyde Rule