The Environmental Protection Agency is the government body tasked with enforcing the laws passed about chemicals, substances, and other materials that affect the environment. The Substance Registry Services (SRS) database collects all of that information, including links to the relevant laws and statutes, in one place.
Nexis Uni includes legal opinions and state and federal regulations, and the Government Publishing Office provides open access to the current Code of Federal Regulations, which govern the U.S.
Not sure which agency regulates a particular topic? Start with USA.gov:
Or start with the regulations and search for the topic.
A regulation is a general statement issued by an agency, board, or commission that has the force and effect of law. Congress often grants agencies the authority to issue regulations. Sometimes Congress requires agencies to issue a regulation; sometimes Congress grants agencies the discretion to do so. Many laws passed by Congress give Federal agencies some flexibility in deciding how best to implement those laws. Federal regulations specify the details and requirements necessary to implement and to enforce legislation enacted by Congress.
From Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs FAQ (reginfo.gov; see link below)
(With thanks to Debbie Rabina, drabina@pratt.edu)
Where to find articles about the physical effects of lead in drinking water.
