EPA proposes new restrictions and cuts on toxic pollutants and emissions.

The EPA is proposing tougher standards on several toxic chemicals, including ethylene oxide, which is widely used for sterilizing medical equipment. However, parts of the healthcare and chemical industries are warning that these rule changes could disrupt the supply of safe medical equipment, affecting hospitals and clinics nationwide. Environmental groups and EPA officials say tougher rules are needed because far too many Americans are burdened by pollution from ethylene oxide, which the EPA says is a carcinogen. The agency is also planning to announce rule changes specifically for ethylene oxide, setting more-stringent standards for the businesses that use it and suppliers who register to sell it.