Protect Our Treatment for Enamel, Erosion, and Tooth Health Act; Protect Our TEETH Act
Summary
The Protect Our TEETH Act aims to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act by requiring the EPA Administrator to seek an agreement with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine for a rapid evidence review of proposed rules related to fluoride in drinking water. This review would occur before publishing any proposed rule in the Federal Register concerning the maximum contaminant level goal or the maximum contaminant level for fluoride. The Act also mandates the publication of the review's final report as part of any proposed rule.
Expected Effects
The bill intends to ensure that EPA's fluoride regulations are based on sound scientific evidence. It introduces a mandatory review process by an independent body before new rules are implemented. This could potentially delay or modify proposed rules regarding fluoride levels in drinking water.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures scientific rigor in EPA's fluoride regulations through independent review.
- Increases transparency by requiring publication of the review report in the Federal Register.
- May lead to more informed and effective regulations regarding fluoride in drinking water.
- Promotes public trust by incorporating expert scientific advice into the regulatory process.
- Utilizes existing funds, potentially avoiding additional financial burden.
Potential Disadvantages
- The review process could potentially delay the implementation of necessary regulations.
- The rapid response timeline (90-180 days) may not be sufficient for a comprehensive review.
- The cost of the review, although using existing funds, could divert resources from other important EPA activities.
- The National Academies' review is not binding, and the EPA Administrator can still proceed with a rule that contradicts the review's findings.
- Focusing solely on fluoride may neglect other important aspects of drinking water safety.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare through ensuring safe drinking water, as referenced in the Preamble. Congress's authority to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for the Safe Drinking Water Act, which this bill amends. The requirement for scientific review and transparency also supports due process considerations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).