American Independence Starts with Smarter Energy and Chemical Policy
Independence is not just a principle from our past; it is the foundation which America must build upon for a stronger future. As the global marketplace grows more competitive and geopolitics more complex, we must assert our independence not only in spirit, but by action on smarter national policies.
As the saying goes, “the best defense is a good offense.” That’s why we must act boldly on multiple fronts to defend America’s economic and energy interests from foreign adversaries. And one of the most critical battle lines is energy independence.
According to a recent survey by Morning Consult for the American Chemistry Council, three in four Americans recognize the importance of energy independence. And more than 80% agree that the chemical industry plays an essential role in making it possible.
The chemical industry doesn’t just consume energy it transforms it. Just as flour is essential to a baker, natural gas is vital to chemical manufacturing. We use energy as a feedstock to make molecules that are vital to everyday life. Over the past decade, a surge in domestic natural gas production has propelled the U.S. to a leadership position in global chemical production and innovation. That progress has meant real results: jobs, investments, and revitalized communities across America.
To maintain this momentum, we must adopt an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy and streamline permitting processes to increase domestic energy supplies. But boosting energy independence alone isn’t enough.
We must also assert our dominance in global chemical manufacturing. The Morning Consult survey found that nearly three-quarters of Americans understand that expanding U.S. chemical production will continue to drive job creation, capital investment, and innovation.
Unfortunately, creating more chemistry in America is being held back by a major regulatory roadblock. At the center of this issue is the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the EPA’s primary authority for approving chemicals that are essential to everything from energy to everyday products. TSCA is critically important, but its implementation has faltered. The result? A backlog that has left new, innovative chemicals stuck in limbo awaiting EPA’s review.
Currently, nine in ten new chemicals under TSCA review are delayed, with approval times stretching up to six years far longer than the three to six months seen in other nations. This glacial pace stifles innovation and forces companies to look overseas to bring new technologies to the market.
This is more than just unacceptable; it is putting our nation in jeopardy of falling behind other countries, especially China the world’s largest producer of chemicals.
American success relies on American chemistry, which is why we are calling on the Trump administration and policymakers on both sides of the aisle to make targeted improvements to TSCA. EPA has taken some positive steps, but more substantial and permanent changes are needed, including a public “shot clock” for new chemical reviews. This countdown should include enforcement mechanisms to help keep EPA accountable for making timely approvals and providing greater transparency. Getting TSCA on track will help support the investment and R&D our country needs to stay ahead.
We must not forget that independence is not a given it must be earned and safeguarded. Our nation’s future depends on bold, smart policies that bolster energy and chemical production here at home. It’s time for Congress and the Administration to act decisively and secure the prosperity and independence that define us as a nation.
When chemistry creates, America competes. Learn more here about how the American Chemistry Council is helping build a stronger, more affordable nation.
Chris Jahn is president and CEO of the American Chemistry Council. For more insights on how American success relies on American chemistry, follow Chris on LinkedIn and @JahnChris on X.