Brazil: Senate Approves PL 6120/2019 to Establish the National Inventory of Chemical Substances Bill Awaits Presidential Approval

As expected, the Federal Senate has approved Bill 6120/2019, which aims to establish the National Inventory of Chemical Substances. The bill seeks to regulate the use, commercialization, and control of these substances in Brazil, with the aim of reducing harmful impacts on public health and the environment. The bill now awaits presidential approval.

Purpose of the National Inventory

The National Inventory will serve as a strategic tool to identify and monitor chemical substances produced or imported in the country. It will enable more effective risk management of these substances, promote chemical safety, and help align Brazil with international best practices for regulating chemical products.

Legislative Process and Amendments

The bill has passed through several stages in Congress, including consideration of amendments and adjustments to the text. The final version approved by the Senate includes two drafting amendments aimed at improving the clarity of the document without changing its main content.

Expected Timeline for Presidential Approval

The President has 15 business days from the day the bill is officially received by the Executive Branch to make his decision. During this period, the President may either fully sanction the bill, partially or entirely veto it, or allow it to become law by tacit approval if no action is taken within the deadline. It is expected that the approval process will be completed by the end of October 2024, depending on the exact date the bill reaches the President's office.

If sanctioned, PL 6120/2019 will represent a major step forward in Brazil's policy for controlling chemical substances, providing greater protection to the population and the environment from the risks of exposure to hazardous products.