Neurotoxicity

Scientific Reports Study Links PFAS Exposure to High-Frequency Hearing Loss in Mice

A new peer-reviewed Scientific Reports study shows that chronic PFAS exposure in mice causes high-frequency hearing loss by damaging cochlear hair cells and auditory neurons, strengthening the mechanistic link between PFAS and auditory impairment. These findings expand the toxicological profile of PFAS and may inform future regulatory risk assessments and prioritisation by adding ototoxicity to the range of human health endpoints under consideration.

23 May 2026, 11:17nature.comGlobal

ECHA Science Seminars Feature PARC Research on Neurotoxicity and BPA Alternatives

PARC has reported on ECHA Science Seminars where its experts presented new approach methodologies for neurotoxicity and early findings that some BPA alternatives show endocrine-disrupting activity. Although this does not yet change EU rules, it signals growing reliance on NAM-based evidence under CLP and suggests that BPA alternatives and related chemistries could face closer scrutiny, so companies using them should monitor emerging hazard assessments and substitution strategies.

5 May 2026, 14:19eu-parc.euEuropean Union

Colorado Introduces SB26-184 to Expand Presumptive Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Firefighters

Colorado has introduced SB26-184 to broaden presumptive workers’ compensation coverage for firefighters by expanding the range of covered cancers, adding Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions, and raising the evidentiary bar for employers contesting claims. If enacted, this would significantly increase long-term occupational disease liabilities and benefit entitlements for public and private fire services in Colorado, signalling stronger protections for firefighters routinely exposed to carcinogens and neurotoxins.

4 May 2026, 20:06leg.colorado.govUnited States

EU Researchers Evaluate Chlorpyrifos Developmental Toxicity Using NAM-Based Systematic Review

An EU research team has published an open-access systematic review using new approach methodologies to characterise chlorpyrifos’ developmental and neurotoxic effects across human, rodent, avian, and fish models. The work strengthens the mechanistic case behind existing chlorpyrifos restrictions and illustrates how NAM- and AOP-based evidence can be integrated into next-generation regulatory risk assessments for pesticides and related organophosphates.

28 Apr 2026, 17:47link.springer.comNetherlandsEuropean Union

US EPA Takes Next Step in TSCA Review of Four Chemicals by Calling for Peer Review and Public Comment

In April 2026, US EPA released draft TSCA risk evaluations for HHCB and phthalic anhydride and draft hazard assessments for o‑ and p‑dichlorobenzene, and initiated SACC peer review and public comment. The preliminary finding of unreasonable risk for phthalic anhydride and serious non‑cancer concerns for the dichlorobenzenes signal potential future TSCA‑driven controls on fragrances, paints, coatings, cleaners, and related worker exposures, so affected businesses should start assessing use patterns and mitigation options now.

15 Apr 2026, 15:21epa.govUnited States

Netherlands RIVM Issues SPARK Project Progress Report 2026-1 on Pesticides and Parkinson's Disease

The Dutch RIVM has advanced its SPARK project with a new progress report on establishing a regulatory testing strategy for pesticide-linked Parkinson’s disease risks. This initiative signals a shift toward mandatory neurotoxicity assessments that could lead to stricter authorization criteria and potential market restrictions for active substances across the EU.

5 Apr 2026, 05:42rivm.nlNetherlands

Netherlands Minister Declines Cohort Study on Health Effects of Occupational Pesticide Exposure

The Dutch government has declined to launch a national long-term study on occupational pesticide exposure, choosing instead to rely on international research and upcoming domestic advisory opinions. This decision signals a move toward using existing global evidence to potentially expand national compensation schemes for pesticide-related health conditions like Parkinson's disease.

2 Apr 2026, 10:18open.overheid.nlNetherlands

US Department of Veterans Affairs Issues Biennial Report on Toxicant Exposure at Karshi-Khanabad Air Base (K2)

The US Department of Veterans Affairs has released its 2025 biennial report on toxicant exposure at the K2 air base, finding no elevated health risks despite the presence of background-level depleted uranium. This data will serve as the scientific foundation for upcoming rulemaking to expand disability benefit eligibility for veterans exposed to toxic substances.

28 Mar 2026, 09:34govinfo.govUnited States

US Study Links PFOS Exposure to Slower Processing Speed in Firefighters

Recent research links PFOS exposure from firefighting gear and foam to significantly reduced cognitive processing speed in first responders. This finding increases pressure on manufacturers to transition to PFAS-free protective equipment and provides a scientific basis for stricter occupational health standards and potential liability.

27 Mar 2026, 18:42nature.comUnited States

Netherlands RIVM Assesses Feasibility of Cohort Study on Occupational Pesticide Exposure

The Dutch RIVM has confirmed the feasibility of a large-scale cohort study to monitor long-term health impacts of occupational pesticide exposure. This initiative signals a shift toward evidence-based worker protection policies that may lead to stricter occupational exposure limits or targeted use restrictions for specific pesticide classes.

27 Mar 2026, 17:11rivm.nlNetherlands

Minnesota HF 4731 Proposes Health Department Report On Lead-Containing Bullets Retained In The Body

Minnesota has introduced legislation requiring a state health department report by January 2027 on the long-term medical and toxicological impacts of lead ammunition fragments. This study is expected to provide the evidentiary basis for future state-level restrictions on lead-based ammunition or enhanced consumer safety warnings.

27 Mar 2026, 07:57revisor.mn.govUnited States

US House Bill H.R. 7779 Proposes Environmental Research Programme on Neurodegenerative Disease Risk Factors

The HEALTHY BRAINS Act of 2026, introduced in the US House, proposes a $250 million federal research program to investigate links between environmental toxicants and neurodegenerative diseases. Increased federal focus on PFAS, VOCs, and heavy metals signals a long-term shift toward more stringent health-based risk assessments and potential future substance restrictions.

26 Mar 2026, 19:24govinfo.govUnited States

New York Senate Introduces Bill S09539 On School Drinking Water Lead Reporting

New York introduced legislation to establish a centralized reporting system and a five-year statewide mitigation plan for lead in school drinking water. This move toward mandatory remediation tracking and stricter transparency signals long-term pressure on infrastructure standards and potential new requirements for water-contact components.

26 Mar 2026, 19:07assembly.state.ny.usUnited States

Croatian State Inspectorate Withdraws SNIFFIT Nasal Energy Powder From Market (Safety Gate/RAPEX)

Croatia has ordered the immediate market withdrawal of SNIFFIT nasal energy powder following a Safety Gate alert regarding acute health risks from rapid stimulant absorption. This enforcement action signals increased regulatory scrutiny of novel delivery formats for stimulants and highlights the rapid cross-border impact of EU market surveillance on non-compliant consumer products.

25 Mar 2026, 21:45dirh.gov.hrCroatiaEuropean Union

US NIH Invests Over $150 Million in Human-Based NAMs to Reduce Animal Testing

The US NIH has launched a $150 million initiative to accelerate the development and regulatory validation of human-based non-animal testing methods. This investment signals a strategic shift toward standardized new approach methodologies that will likely reshape future safety assessment protocols and data requirements for chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

25 Mar 2026, 21:37nih.govUnited States

New York Assembly Bill A10681 Would Require Certified Point-Of-Use Lead Filtration In Schools

New York introduced legislation in March 2026 proposing mandatory installation of certified lead-removal filtration systems at high-risk school drinking water outlets. This shift toward active point-of-use remediation signals a transition from monitoring to mandatory infrastructure upgrades, driving demand for certified filtration technologies and stricter maintenance standards.

25 Mar 2026, 21:35nysenate.govUnited States

Hawaii Bill SB671 Proposes Ban on Certain Dangerous Pesticides on State Lands

Hawaii is advancing legislation to ban glyphosate, dicamba, and other high-profile pesticides on all state-owned lands and facilities. This move signals a shift toward stricter localized chemical management that will require contractors to adopt alternative substances for state-managed infrastructure and landscaping.

22 Mar 2026, 14:08capitol.hawaii.govUnited States

Minnesota Senate Agriculture Committee Adds Paraquat Dichloride Ban Bill (SF 4160) to 23 March 2026 Hearing Agenda

Minnesota is advancing legislation to prohibit the sale of paraquat dichloride pesticides by 2027 and their use by 2028. Impacted businesses should evaluate herbicide portfolios and prepare for mandatory state-led disposal of existing inventory.

20 Mar 2026, 16:18senate.mnUnited States

California DPR Lists CYKILL Rodenticide Bait (Bromethalin) for Evaluation (PRO-2402197)

California has initiated the formal evaluation of a new bromethalin-based rodenticide for state-level registration. Manufacturers should track this assessment as the outcome will determine market entry conditions and mandatory labeling requirements for vertebrate control products.

14 Mar 2026, 08:25content.govdelivery.comUnited States

New Jersey Proposes Ban on Crayon and Chalk Products Containing Lead (Assembly Bill A4705)

New Jersey has reintroduced legislation to prohibit the sale of lead-containing crayons and chalk for the 2026-2027 session. This persistent legislative focus on heavy metals in children's products signals a need for manufacturers to verify material safety and prepare for potential market access restrictions.

12 Mar 2026, 20:34njleg.state.nj.usUnited States