EPA bans consumer use of a toxic chemical widely used as a paint stripper but known to cause cancer

The EPA has implemented a ban on consumer uses of methylene chloride, a chemical primarily used as a paint stripper, due to its association with severe health issues including liver cancer. This decision, part of broader amendments to the Toxic Substances Control Act, allows some commercial uses to continue with stringent worker protections. The ban aims to eliminate the health hazards posed by the chemical, which has been linked to numerous worker deaths and long-term health effects.