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Popcorn Act Is a Rush to Regulate

September 26, 2007
Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 26, 2007

CONTACT: Ryan Murphy
(202) 225-2452 (Office)
(202) 689-4825 (Cell)

Popcorn Act Is a Rush to Regulate

- Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) issued the following statement today after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2693, the “Popcorn Workers Lung Disease Prevention Act.” The final legislation did not include an amendment offered by Representative Wilson that would have ensured the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) made its final rule regarding diacetyl based on sound science.

“We must do all we can to ensure the safety and well-being of American workers,” said Wilson. “I am disappointed that the bill passed today by the House of Representatives does a disservice to our workforce and to the regulatory function of OSHA. We have made a mistake in our rush to regulate, and, fundamentally, that is a flawed approach.”

“I believe my colleagues are sincere in wanting to discover what is harming workers in and around microwave popcorn manufacturing facilities, and I share their concerns for the safety of American workers. However, insufficient scientific evidence exists to prove a direct link between diacetyl and impaired lung function. My amendment would have allowed OSHA to provide a rule to protect workers, but they would do so using scientific evidence.

“The Popcorn Workers Lung Disease Prevention Act does not accomplish its intended goal. It regulates diacetyl and requires a standard to be set based on little or no available science.”

Wilson Amendment to H.R. 2693:

  • Would have required that the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conclude that there is sufficient data to support a recommended exposure limit before OSHA establishes a final rule an exposure limit.
  • Would have provided for the same swift action to protect workers by establishing an interim final rule which would provide guidance to manufacturers to take immediate steps to limit exposure through the use of engineering improvements, ventilation, and other strategies to protect workers.

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