INFLUENCE GAME: Chemical trade tries to shape regs

WASHINGTON (AP) — The powerful chemical industry is putting its lobbying muscle behind legislation that would establish federal standards for compounds used in products from household goods to plastic water bottles. But the industry-favored bill would also make it tougher for states to regulate chemicals.

Many states already have acted on their own — and that's what's gotten the industry's attention.

The American Chemical Council, a trade group, spent nearly $6 million on lobbying in the first half of the year, the most recent reporting period.

There's widespread agreement that the current law needs an overhaul. But a big sticking point is the role of the states in regulating chemicals.

Regulation of chemicals took on new urgency after a crippling chemical spill in West Virginia last January contaminated drinking water for 300,000 residents.