Regulations in the Works...

• Canada is planning to adopt VOC limits for consumer products in late 2009 similar to the OTC model rule used in the northeastern states of the US. It is believed the limits will be effective in 2 years with a 1-year sell through.

• California Air Resources Board is discussing new limits on three product categories, Double Phase Air Fresheners (aerosol), Multi-Purpose Solvent, and Paint Thinner, over the next several years. With the following categories scheduled for changes or additions when indicated:

Astringent / Toner – 12/31/2010

Brake Cleaners – 12/31/2010

Carburetor or Fuel-injection Air Intake Cleaners – 12/31/2010

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner (aerosol & non-aerosol RTU) – 12/31/2010

Dusting Aid (aerosol & non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Engine Degreasers (aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Fabric Protectant (non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Fabric Softener – Single Use Dryer Sheet – 12/31/2010

Floor Maintenance Product – 12/31/2010

Floor Polishes or Waxes

Resilient Flooring Materials – 12/31/2010

Nonresilient Flooring Materials – 12/31/2010

Wood Floor Wax – 12/31/2010

General Purpose Degreasers (aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Glass Cleaner (aerosol) – 12/31/2012

Motor Vehicle Wash – 12/31/2010

Multi-Purpose Lubricant (excludes solids and semisolids) – 12/31/2013 & 12/31/2015

Odor Remover / Eliminator (aerosol & non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Penetrant – 12/31/2013

Pressurized Gas Duster – 12/31/2010

Sealant and Caulking Compounds

Chemically Curing (non-aerosol) – 12/31/2012

Non-chemically Curing (non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Shaving Gel – 12/31/2009

Spot Remover (aerosol & non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Temporary Hair Color (aerosol) – 12/31/2009

Tire or Wheel Cleaner (aerosol & non-aerosol) – 12/31/2010

Windsheild Water Repellant – 12/31/2010

• United States EPA is planning to adopt VOC limits for consumer products similar to the OTC model rule. Look for this to be finalized late this year to early next year. It may go into effect as early as 1/1/2011.

Regulations Recently Adopted...

• Illinois adopted VOC limits for consumer products following the OTC model rule effective July 1, 2009. For more info see http://www.epa.state.il.us/air/

• Rhode Island adopted VOC limits for consumer products following the OTC model rule effective July 1, 2009. For more info see http://www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/regs/#Air

• New Jersey adopted the OTC model rule with an additional restriction on chlorinated solvents in the "automotive consumer products" category on 1/1/2009. For more info see http://www.nj.gov/dep/aqm/1997adop.htm

• California Air Resources Board had new regulations effective on 12/31/2008. The effected product categories include the following:

Special Purpose Spray Adhesives – Construction, Panel, and Floor Covering

Anti-static Product (aerosol)

Automotive Windshield Washer Fluids – Type "A" Areas

Bathroom & Tile Cleaners (non-aerosol)

Brake Cleaners

Carburetor or Fuel-injection Air Intake Cleaners

Disinfectants (aerosol & non-aerosol)

Furniture Maintenance Products (non-aerosol)

General Purpose Degreasers (aerosol)

Laundry Starch/Sizing/Fabric Finish Product

Oven Cleaners (non-aerosol)

Sanitizers (aerosol & non-aerosol)

For more info see http://www.arb.ca.gov

• CT, DE, DC, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, & northern VA - the OTC model rule, the basis for VOC regulations in these states, was revised on 12/31/2008, including stricter limits or new limits for the product categories specified below:

Adhesives

Contact – General Purpose

Contact – Special Purpose

Adhesive Removers

Anti-static Product (non-aerosol)

Electrical Cleaner

Electronics Cleaner

Fabric Refresher (aerosol & non-aerosol)

Footwear or Leather Care Product (aerosol, solid and all other forms)

Graffiti Remover (aerosol & non-aerosol)

Hair Styling Product (aerosol and pump spray & all other forms)

Shaving Gel

Toilet / Urinal care Product (aerosol & non-aerosol)

Wood Cleaner (aerosol & non-aerosol)

For more info see http://www.otcair.org