SOCMA Weighs in on Proposed Legislation on Global Warming

Washington DC (June 2)-The Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association (SOCMA) is evaluating proposed legislation, The Climate Security Act of 2008 (S. 3036), which directs the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a program for decreasing greenhouse emissions. SOCMA is the US trade association representing batch and custom manufacturers, which includes contract manufacturers of active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates.

“SOCMA will work to ensure that any climate policy provides flexibility for businesses of all sizes,” said the association in a press release. “SOCMA supports policies promoting a diversified national approach to climate change and recognizing the range of operations and activities within various industry sectors.”

S. 3036 was introduced May 20, 2008. It contains transition assistance to owners and operators of energy-intensive manufacturing facilities. SOCMA says it supports the adoption of any transition assistance that accounts for the unique needs of small manufacturers. The association also supports an increase in research and development (R&D) credits and credits for businesses currently reducing emissions or implementing energy-efficiency measures.

The association, however, says it “remains concerned that the legislation may inadvertently disadvantage businesses due to their size, variable production methods, or having lower levels of emissions,” said SOCMA in a prepared statement. “Without concessions recognizing the unique processes of the specialty batch and custom chemical-manufacturing industry, the legislation may constrain production and exact a significant financial toll on those companies.”

SOCMA emphasizes that a nationwide effort to address climate-change concerns should promote conservation, evaluate cap–and–trade programs, and further the use of R&D credits.