The Environmental Protection Agency announced Friday a proposed rule that would loosen emissions requirements for sterilizer plants that release ethylene oxide, a gas the agency has identified as cancer-causing.

The proposal targets facilities that use ethylene oxide in sterilization processes. According to the EPA, ethylene oxide exposure can cause several types of cancer, including lymphoma, myeloma, lymphocytic leukemia, and breast cancer.

The rule change represents a shift in regulatory approach for the Trump administration regarding industrial emissions standards. Sterilizer plants use ethylene oxide to sterilize medical equipment and other products, making the chemical an important component in healthcare supply chains.

The proposed rule would modify existing requirements that govern how much ethylene oxide these facilities can emit into the surrounding environment. The EPA has not yet provided details on the specific changes to emission limits or compliance timelines.

The proposal will undergo a public comment period before any final rule is implemented. Environmental and public health groups are expected to weigh in on the regulatory changes during this process.