Congress and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have begun to further explore the dangers posed by bisphenol A (BPA) and whether to regulate its use, especially in food and beverage containers. BPA is an industrial chemical used to make hard plastic containers, such as baby bottles, and is part of the lining of food cans, where it is used to prevent metal from leaching into foods. Congress recently held a hearing and is considering legislation to limit the use of BPA. The FDA is assessing the toxicity of the chemical to help determine the risk to consumers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed a stricter federal standard for roof strength in passenger vehicles that would prohibit any action on roof safety at the state level — including damages claims brought by victims in state courts. During a June 4 Senate hearing, senators from both parties and auto safety advocates aired their complaints about the proposal.