Feds Will Launch Investigation Into Risks Of Chemical

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration says it could soon launch a formal evaluation of risks posed by vinyl chloride, the cancer-causing chemical that burned in a towering plume of toxic smoke following the fiery train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The Environmental Protection Agency is set to review risks posed by a handful of chemicals later this year and is considering chemicals used for plastic production as a key benchmark. Vinyl chloride, used to make PVC plastic pipes, is among chemicals eligible for review. EPA said a risk evaluation would take at least three years. Environmental and public health groups have long pushed to ban the chemical, also used in vinyl siding and children’s toys.