6PPD Task Force Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Strickland, Marilyn [D-WA-10]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 16, 2026
Bottom line
This bill creates a multi-agency task force to coordinate research, mitigation, and the development of alternatives for the chemical 6PPD and its toxic by-product 6PPD-Q, which are harmful to coho salmon and the environment.
What it actually does
This bill establishes the '6PPD Task Force' within 60 days of enactment, to be led by the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the National Academy of Sciences. The Task Force is charged with improving data sharing, identifying federal funding for research into 6PPD alternatives and impacts, recommending ways to expedite testing and adoption of safer alternatives, sharing mitigation best practices, and researching non-tire pathways of 6PPD exposure. It also requires annual reports to Congress and the public, and the creation of an online repository for information.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill addresses an urgent environmental and public health issue by creating a dedicated, expert-led task force to find solutions to 6PPD toxicity. They emphasize the importance of protecting coho salmon, which are economically and ecologically valuable, and ensuring public safety by finding alternatives that maintain tire performance. The collaborative approach involving federal agencies, tribal governments, industry, and academia is seen as a strength that will lead to comprehensive and actionable solutions.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that establishing another task force could add bureaucratic layers without guaranteeing immediate action or results, potentially duplicating efforts of existing agencies. Concerns could also be raised about the cost-effectiveness of such a body, especially if existing research and regulatory frameworks could be leveraged more efficiently. Some might also express apprehension about potential delays in industry innovation while waiting for task force recommendations, or the administrative burden placed on private sector representatives.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick but informed read, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 3(a)
Establishment of 6PPD Task Force
This provision mandates the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to establish a task force within 60 days of the bill's enactment. This task force, known as the '6PPD Task Force,' will be created through an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences, ensuring an independent, expert-driven approach to the issue.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that establishing a dedicated task force ensures focused attention and coordinated effort on the complex issue of 6PPD impacts, bringing together necessary expertise from various sectors under a clear mandate.
Critics contend
Some critics might argue that creating a new task force could add an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy, potentially slowing down action or duplicating efforts that existing federal agencies could undertake.
Tradeoffs
The tradeoff involves balancing the need for a dedicated, multi-stakeholder body with the potential for increased administrative overhead and slower decision-making compared to direct agency action.
Section 3(b)
Duties of the Task Force
This section outlines the core responsibilities of the 6PPD Task Force. These duties include improving data sharing among various governmental and research entities, identifying federal funding opportunities for research into 6PPD impacts and alternatives, recommending ways to expedite the testing and adoption of safer alternatives, sharing best practices for 6PPD mitigation, and researching non-tire pathways of 6PPD exposure (e.g., artificial turf, playground materials).
Section 3(c)
Task Force Membership
This provision specifies the composition of the 6PPD Task Force, ensuring broad representation. It includes designees from key federal agencies (DOT, EPA, Agriculture, USGS, FWS, NOAA, NIH, CDC), at least four representatives from Tribal governments on the western coast with knowledge of coho salmon impacts, at least four private sector representatives (two from tire manufacturing, two from chemical additive manufacturing), at least one environmental community representative, at least two state government representatives with expertise in environmental and public health, and at least one university research institution representative with relevant expertise.
Section 3(g)
Reporting Requirements
This provision mandates that the 6PPD Task Force submit a report to the relevant committees of the House and Senate (Transportation and Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, Environment and Public Works) within 180 days of enactment, and annually thereafter. These reports must include the task force's findings and recommendations, as well as a list of all stakeholders and industry experts consulted. All reports must also be made publicly available.