EPA is proposing a regulatory framework for states and public water systems (PWSs) to identify and assess restructuring alternatives to ensure that every community receives safe, affordable, and reliable drinking water. The proposed regulations would: establish a new mandatory restructuring assessment authority for states; require states with primary enforcement authority (primacy) to develop mandatory restructuring assessment programs and submit primacy revisions for EPA review and approval; establish requirements for states and PWSs that implement system-specific mandatory restructuring assessments; and establish eligibility requirements and limitations for restructuring incentives under state-approved restructuring plans. This proposed rulemaking is required under amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). By taking this action, the EPA intends to strengthen the ongoing efforts of states and PWSs to protect public health. Comments must be received on or before 29 July 2024. POC is Will Bowman, Drinking Water Capacity & Compliance Assistance Division, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (MC-4606M) Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 564-3782; email: bowman.will@epa.gov. (Federal Register 30 May 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 46998-47026)

EPA finalized a ban on most uses of methylene chloride, a dangerous chemical known to cause liver cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, cancer of the blood, and cancer of the central nervous system, as well as neurotoxicity, liver harm and even death. Ending most uses of methylene chloride will save lives and complements the President's Cancer Moonshot, a whole-of-government initiative to end cancer as we know it. EPA's final action, also known as a risk management rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), will protect people from health risks while allowing key uses to continue safely with a robust new worker protection program. This is the second risk management rule to be finalized using the process created by the 2016 TSCA amendments.

EPA announced a suite of final rules to reduce pollution from fossil fuel-fired power plants in order to protect all communities from pollution and improve public health without disrupting the delivery of reliable electricity. These rules, finalized under separate authorities including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, will significantly reduce climate, air, water, and land pollution from the power sector, delivering on the Administration's commitment to protect public health, advance environmental justice, and confront the climate crisis.

The EPA is amending specific provisions in the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule to improve data quality and consistency. This action updates the General Provisions to reflect revised global warming potentials; expands reporting to additional sectors; improves the calculation, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements by updating existing methodologies; improves data verifications; and provides for collection of additional data to better inform and be relevant to a wide variety of Clean Air Act provisions that the EPA carries out. This action adds greenhouse gas monitoring and reporting for five source categories. These revisions also include changes that will improve implementation of the rule such as updates to applicability estimation methodologies, simplifying calculation and monitoring methodologies, streamlining recordkeeping and reporting, and other minor technical corrections or clarifications. This rule is effective 1 January 2025. POC is Jennifer Bohman, Climate Change Division, Office of Atmospheric Programs (MC-6207A), EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20460; tele: (202) 343-9548; email: GHGReporting@epa.gov. (Federal Register 25 April 2024 [Rule] Pages 31802-31959)

EPA is announcing the launch of a new website, epa.gov/permits, a centralized web-based platform for information about federal environmental permitting. It highlights EPA's permitting and environmental review programs and shares information on related statutes and environmental justice initiatives. In support of EPA's commitments under Title 41 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41), it also displays the status of EPA permits for large scale infrastructure projects covered by this statute. The website is a resource for the public, permit applicants and federal agency partners.

A centralized web-based platform for information about federal environmental permitting. It highlights EPA's permitting and environmental review programs and shares information on related statutes and environmental justice initiatives. The website is a resource for the public, permit applicants, and federal agency partners.

EPA announced a final rule to prohibit ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos, the only known form of asbestos currently used in or imported to the United States. The ban on ongoing uses of asbestos is the first rule to be finalized under the 2016 amendments to the nation's chemical safety law, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which received near-unanimous support in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. The action marks a major milestone for chemical safety after more than three decades of inadequate protections and serious delays during the previous administration to implement the 2016 amendments. Exposure to asbestos is known to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, and laryngeal cancer, and it is linked to more than 40,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.

On March 12, 2024, EPA announced proposed amendments to the regulations for the open burning and open detonation of waste explosives. The proposed rule would improve implementation of requirements for how facilities must evaluate and use alternative technologies determined to be safe and available for treating waste explosives in lieu of OB/OD. EPA is also proposing changes to the OB/OD requirements for: • Waste analysis and characterization. • Wastes prohibited from OB/OD. • Minimum technical standards for OB/OD units. • Potential de minimis exemption to evaluating and implementing alternative treatment technologies. • Delay of closure applicability to OB/OD units. • Applicability to emergencies. • Timelines for implementing alternative treatment technologies. • Permitting of mobile treatment units. EPA will be taking public comment for 60 days once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register. During the comment period, EPA will host a public webinar about this proposal and will post that information on this webpage.

The Department of Defense's National Defense Center for Energy and Environment (NDCEE) is excited to announce the opening of proposals for demonstrations of environmental, safety, occupational health, and energy technologies from March 1st to April 1st. They welcome submissions from all DoD Services, inviting innovative technologies, processes, and strategies that enhance energy security, Warfighter protection, military operations efficiency, or reduce environmental impacts. NDCEE wants your help shaping the future of defense through initiatives that bolster national security, safeguard our planet, and contribute to a more robust, greener, and secure tomorrow.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has published a new compliance advisory titled Federal Facility Compliance with the Asbestos NESHAP. The Asbestos NESHAP requirements protect the public by minimizing the release of asbestos fibers during building renovations and demolitions. This compliance advisory reminds federal facilities of their compliance obligations under the Asbestos NESHAP and the Clean Air Act during building renovations and demolitions, even when those activities are performed by contractors.

To reduce the rate of significant noncompliance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits at lagoon facilities, improve water quality, and protect environmental and public health, the EPA has developed this troubleshooting manual. Specifically, this manual is designed to help operators at small wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) lagoons, also called wastewater stabilization ponds, identify causes of lagoon upset conditions and the corresponding troubleshooting steps.

Facilities that need to submit SDSs or the list of hazardous chemicals under Section 311, also need to submit an annual inventory report for the same chemicals (EPCRA Section 312). This inventory report must be submitted to the State or Tribal Emergency Response Commission (SERC or TERC), Local or Tribal Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC or TEPC), and the local fire department by March 1 of each year. Most States require the Tier II form. Tier II forms require basic facility identification information, employee contact information for both emergencies and non-emergencies, information about chemicals stored or used at the facility, and additional data elements which would be useful to local planners and responders.

This portal is intended to help generators find hazardous waste compliance assistance resources. The portal includes both federal and state information and it covers most industrial and commercial business sectors. The portal catalogs over 800 hazardous waste compliance resources, including guidebooks, fact sheets, reports, checklists, web sites, contacts, and regulations. Various features are available to assist users in finding the best guidance materials and answers to specific questions.

The EPA is proposing amendments to the new source performance standards (NSPS) and emission guidelines (EG) for large municipal waste combustion (MWC) units. These proposed amendments reflect the results from a reevaluation of the maximum achievable control technology (MACT) floor levels, a 5-year review, and the removal of startup, shutdown and malfunction exclusions and exceptions. These proposed amendments also streamline regulatory language, revise recordkeeping and electronic notification and reporting requirements, re-establish new and existing source applicability dates, clarify requirements for certain air curtain incinerators, close a 2007 proposed reconsideration action, correct certain typographical errors, make certain technical corrections, and clarify certain provisions in the NSPS and EG. These proposed amendments would revise all emission limits in the EG, except for carbon monoxide (CO) limits for two subcategories of combustors, and all nine emission limits in the NSPS.. Comments must be received on or before 25 March 2024. POC is Charlene E. Spells, Sector Policies and Programs Division (E143–05), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, EPA, Research Triangle Park, P.O. Box 12055, North Carolina 27711; tele: (919) 541–5255; email:spells.charlene@epa.gov. (Federal Register 23 January 2024 [Proposed Rule] pages 4243-4268)

EPA published the 2023 Mercury Inventory Report on the supply, use, and trade of mercury in the U.S. This is the second inventory report published after finalizing the 2018 mercury inventory reporting rule, adding to the suite of completed mandates related to elemental mercury and mercury compounds per the 2016 amendments to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The 2023 report is the first report that reflects the January 1, 2020, effective date of the 2016 TSCA amendment to prohibit the export of five mercury compounds. The data in the 2023 report will further assist the U.S. in its implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury. High exposure to mercury can cause kidney damage, respiratory failure, and death. Other health effects include difficulty breathing, headaches, muscle weakness, memory loss, and mood swings. Additionally, mercury does not biodegrade and can build up in the environment.

On November 9, 2023, EPA hosted a webinar about the "Alternate PCB Extraction Methods and Amendments to PCB Cleanup and Disposal Regulations" final rule. For those who missed it, you can now access the webinar recording and presentation slides on our website.

This compendium draws on information from several sources, including completed alternative technology evaluations and RCRA permits for alternative technologies. It serves as a technical resource for permit agencies, facility owners and operators, and others when evaluating potential alternative treatment options for explosive hazardous wastes.

EPA issued a draft memorandum for public comment that communicates EPA's approach on when and how to consider potential adverse climate change impacts in the PCB approval process under the Toxic Substances Control Act. This memorandum would clarify that, for PCB cleanup, storage, and disposal approvals, our determination of no unreasonable risk is to be inclusive of not only current but future conditions at sites and facilities vulnerable to potential adverse climate change impacts. We identify measures that strengthen the resilience of PCB cleanup, storage, and disposal controls to climate change impacts, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment over time. EPA welcomes comment on the memorandum through 26 January 2024.?

EPA issued for public comment a draft memorandum that would provide guidance to EPA Regions, states, and territories on when and how to consider potential adverse climate change impacts in the hazardous waste permitting process under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. This draft guidance includes expectations for conducting climate change vulnerability screenings and assessments for treatment, storage, and disposal facilities to determine whether there are climate vulnerabilities that hazardous waste permits should address. The memo's recommendations would ensure that controls provide long-term effectiveness through resilience to adverse climate change impacts into the future. EPA welcomes comment on the memorandum through 26 January 2024.?? ?

EPA announced a proposal to strengthen its Lead and Copper Rule that would require water systems across the country to replace lead service lines within 10 years. EPA is also proposing additional improvements to protect public health, such as lowering the lead action level and improving sampling protocols utilized by water systems. The Administration is using every tool available to help communities and water systems Get the Lead Out--including investing a historic $15 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead service lines, providing technical assistance to communities, and supporting the development of a national inventory of lead service lines. The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements are central to the whole of government approach detailed in the Administration's Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan. Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register, EPA will accept comments for 60 days. The agency will also hold a virtual public hearing on 16 January 2024, at which time the public will be invited to provide EPA with verbal comments. For more information about the proposed rule visit the proposed rule webpage.

On October 23, 2023, EPA announced a new rulemaking effort to improve the recycling and management of end-of-life solar panels and lithium batteries. EPA is developing a proposed rule to add solar panels to the universal waste regulations and to add tailored universal waste standards for lithium batteries. EPA is working on this rulemaking in part in response to a petition submitted by a broad coalition of industry associations to regulate solar panels as universal waste. EPA is also working on adjustments within the universal waste regulations to improve safety standards and reduce fires from mismanaged end-of-life lithium batteries. Read about this effort on our website.

This training is designed and directed towards the federal facility manager and provides the opportunity to learn about the SPCC requirements, an overview of the inspection process, and common violations. The training will assist federal facility managers to maintain and/or improve compliance with SPCC requirements. The course will provide an SPCC 101 overview for facility managers. (See PDF file FED FACILTY Webinar Sept 2023 1_5 hours final)

This training is designed to allow federal facility personnel and other environmental professionals the opportunity to learn about the SPCC requirements, the inspection process, and common violations. The training will assist federal facilities to maintain and/or improve compliance with SPCC requirements. The objective of this training is to assist federal facilities with the implementation of their SPCC programs designed to prevent oil discharges from impacting navigable waters. The training is targeted for facilities with oil: storage, processing, refining, transferring, and activities or equipment using/consuming oil and oil products. The course will provide an SPCC 101 overview, a "deeper dive" into the SPCC rules, their applicability and requirements (e.g. containment, tank integrity, plan updates, etc.) for federal facility operators and certifying Professional Engineers (PEs). The US EPA SPCC inspection process and expectations will be discussed. An in-depth pictorial review of typical noncompliance found during EPA inspections will be provided. (See PDF file FED FACILTY Webinar Sept 2023 draft 4 hours)

EPA announced a proposal to ban all uses of trichloroethylene (TCE) an extremely toxic chemical known to cause serious health risks including cancer, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. TCE is used in cleaning and furniture care products, degreasers, brake cleaners, and tire repair sealants, and a variety of safer alternatives are readily available for many uses. This action, taken under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), would protect people from these health risks by banning the manufacture, processing, and distribution of TCE for all uses. EPA's proposed risk management rule would take effect in one year for consumer products and most commercial uses and would implement stringent worker protections on the limited remaining commercial and industrial uses that would be phased down over a longer period.

EPA is issuing a supplemental proposed rule to reduce the spread of invasive species that occurs with normal operation of large marine vessels. Following public input on EPA's 2020 proposed rule--including meetings with states, Tribes, and other stakeholders--the agency is now issuing a Supplemental Notice to share new data and control options raised by stakeholders. This supplemental proposal will bolster the development of a final rule to stem the spread of invasive species and better protect our nation's aquatic ecosystems.

This presentation will cover how to manage the impacts of fats, oil, and grease on the collection system and the WWTP. The webinar will also cover fees and permitting options for food service establishments (FSEs), public outreach options, and enforcement.

EPA finalized regulatory changes that address several key issues in the Polychlorinated Biphenyls Cleanup and Disposal program under the Toxic Substances Control Act. This final rule expands the available options for extraction and determinative methods used to characterize and verify the cleanup of PCB waste, which would greatly reduce the amount of solvent used in PCB extraction processes. EPA also finalized more flexible provisions to facilitate cleanup of waste during emergencies (e.g., hurricanes or floods), strengthened protections for the performance-based disposal option for PCB remediation waste, and made other updates to the regulations. EPA's revisions are based on the emergence of new science and information about PCBs, the advancement of analytical methods and technology, and requests from the regulated community to address concerns and improve the clarity of the regulations.

EPA's National Compliance Initiatives (NCIs) advance the Agency Strategic Plan's objectives to improve air quality, provide for clean and safe water, ensure chemical safety, and improve compliance with our nation's environmental laws while enhancing shared accountability between the EPA and states and tribes with authorized environmental programs.

EPA is joining state and local partners to launch SepticSmart Week 2023, a week-long annual campaign to educate homeowners and renters on how to properly maintain their septic systems. When septic systems are well-functioning, the health of the nation's communities and ecosystems is better protected. By being SepticSmart, homeowners can also avoid thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs. Running from September 18 through September 22 this year, SepticSmart week is a partnership between EPA, state, Tribal, and local officials, wastewater professionals, and homeowners.

EPA announced a final rule to restore the fundamental authority granted by Congress to states, territories, and Tribes to protect water resources that are essential to healthy people and thriving communities. The agency's final CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification Improvement Rule will support clear, efficient, and focused water quality reviews of infrastructure and development projects that are key to economic growth. Clean Water Act Section 401 enables states, territories, and authorized Tribes to protect their water quality from adverse impacts of construction or operation of federally permitted projects. Under Section 401 of the Act, a federal agency may not issue a license or permit to conduct any activity that may result in any discharge into a water of the US, unless the appropriate state, territory, or authorized Tribe issues a CWA Section 401 water quality certification or waives certification. EPA's 2023 rule realigns the scope of Section 401 certification with decades of established practice and restores and strengthens the role of states, territories, and authorized Tribes. The rule enhances certification review and provides regulatory certainty to advance federally permitted projects. The rule emphasizes that states, territories, and Tribes may only consider the adverse water quality-impacts from the activity. The rule also provides a clear approach to defining the required contents in a request for certification.

The EPA announced its National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives for 2024-2027, including for the first time initiatives to mitigate climate change, address exposure to PFAS contamination, and protect communities from cancer-causing coal ash. To advance the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to protect disadvantaged communities, EPA also will integrate environmental justice considerations into each of its National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives. Every four years, across administrations, EPA selects enforcement and compliance priorities so that the agency and its state partners can prioritize resources to address the most serious and widespread environmental problems facing the United States. In addition to climate change, PFAS contamination, and coal ash initiatives, EPA is modifying its Clean Air Act initiative to focus on hazardous toxic air pollution in overburdened communities in each EPA region and is continuing its drinking water and chemical accident prevention initiatives that began under prior administrations.

EPA is releasing the first set of data collected under the fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5). In the latest action to deliver on EPA's PFAS Strategic Roadmap, UCMR 5 will provide new data that will improve EPA's understanding of the frequency that 29 PFAS and lithium are found in the nation's drinking water systems, and at what levels. The monitoring data on PFAS and lithium will help the Agency make determinations about future actions to protect public health under the Safe Drinking Water Act. This action advances the Administration's commitment to combat PFAS pollution and safeguard drinking water for all people.

On October 17 and 18, 2023, the EPA and HUD will hold a virtual public workshop to receive stakeholder input on the detection, measurement and characterization of lead-based paint to support efforts to reduce lead exposure. EPA and HUD will use information received during the workshop to inform their joint effort to revisit the federal definition of lead-based paint and propose and finalize a revised definition, if necessary. The workshop will cover several topics related to low levels of lead in existing paint, including the potential health effects, the relationship between lead-based paint and dust-lead, possible exposure pathways (e.g., renovation and maintenance, deteriorating paint and direct ingestion), and emerging detection and measurement technologies used to quantify lead in paint. Additionally, EPA and HUD also seek any available new information on lead-based paint characteristics and medical evidence related to low levels of lead in paint to help with EPA and HUD's reevaluation of the definition of lead-based paint. The information shared will increase awareness of exposure pathways that must be considered, inform models that examine the exposure to lead at various concentrations and provide greater context for the impacts a lower definition may have.

EPA announced a final rule to require comprehensive reporting on all six fiber types of asbestos as the agency continues its work to address exposure to this known carcinogen and strengthen the evidence that will be used to further protect people from this dangerous chemical. The rule, issued under section 8(a) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), requires asbestos manufacturers (including importers) and processors to report certain use and exposure information from the past four years, including information on asbestos-containing products (including as an impurity). Under the reporting rule, manufacturers (including importers) or processors of asbestos between 2019 and 2022 with annual sales above $500,000 in any of those years are required to report exposure-related information, including quantities of asbestos manufactured or processed, types of use, and employee data. Importantly, the rule also covers asbestos-containing products (including products that contain asbestos as an impurity) and asbestos that is present as a component of a mixture. Manufacturers (including importers) and processors subject to the rule will have nine months following the effective date of the final rule to collect and submit all required information to EPA.

Join the EPA for a webinar on the Agency's proposal to ban all consumer uses and many industrial and commercial uses of perchloroethylene (PCE), a majority of which would be fully implemented in 24 months after the rule is finalized, except for dry cleaning which would be subject to a 10-year phaseout with compliance dates depending on the type of machine in which PCE is used. For uses in industrial manufacturing, industrial processing, and certain commercial uses important for national security, aviation, and other critical infrastructure that EPA is not proposing to prohibit, EPA is proposing a workplace chemical protection program with strict exposure limits and workplace controls for laboratory use to better protect workers. This webinar will be useful for anyone looking for an overview of the proposed regulatory action or to provide input on the proposed program, including industry groups, nonprofit organizations, Tribes, and other stakeholders. EPA is particularly looking for participation from employers and workers who can give perspective on the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed requirement for worker protections.

Please join EPA's e-Manifest Team for our next quarterly public e-Manifest Webinar. EPA hosts webinars to share the Agency's progress on the e-Manifest initiative.

The purpose of this memorandum is to clarify how the hazardous waste regulations for universal waste and recycling apply to lithium-ion batteries. The proportion of electric cars powered by lithium-ion batteries on the road is rising rapidly; lithium-ion batteries also power our electronics and, increasingly, lawnmowers, e-scooters, electric bicycles, and many other devices. The growth of the circular economy for lithium battery materials is vital as the focus turns to how to eventually manage lithium-ion batteries at the end of their lives. Recycling lithium-ion batteries returns valuable critical minerals to the economy, both conserving resources and reducing the overall energy use needed to produce new batteries.

As part of the Administration's efforts to protect communities from childhood lead exposure and advance environmental justice, the EPA is announcing a series of free educational sessions on the dangers of lead and ways to reduce and prevent lead exposure. These sessions are based on the Lead Awareness Curriculum, an adaptable resource to protect communities from potential lead exposure, and will be held in English and Spanish. EPA will work with community partners to host two types of community lead awareness sessions: 1. "Understanding Lead" sessions for community members: EPA invites members of the general public to learn about lead, its impacts, actions to reduce and prevent lead exposure and the importance of testing children's blood lead levels. Parents, grandparents, community leaders, Tribal leaders, child care workers, healthcare providers, youth (ages 12 and up) and anyone else interested in learning more about lead are invited to attend. 2. "Train-the-Trainer" sessions for community leaders: These sessions equip community leaders -- with or without prior knowledge about lead -- to educate their communities about lead and preventing lead exposure using the Lead Awareness Curriculum.

EPA announced another action to protect public health under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), proposing a ban on most uses of perchloroethylene (PCE), a chemical known to cause serious health risks such as neurotoxicity and cancer. This proposal would protect people from these risks by banning all consumer uses while allowing for many industrial/commercial uses to continue only where strict workplace controls could be implemented, including uses related to national security, aviation and other critical infrastructure, and the Agency's efforts to combat the climate crisis. EPA's proposed risk management rule would rapidly phase down manufacturing, processing and distribution of PCE for all consumer uses and many industrial and commercial uses, most of which would be fully phased out in 24 months. The uses subject to the proposed prohibitions represent less than 20% of the annual production volume of PCE. For most of the uses of PCE that EPA is proposing to prohibit, EPA's analysis also found that alternative products with similar costs and efficacy to PCE are reasonably available.

An informational public webinar was held on 1 May 2023 to discuss EPA's proposed actions to reduce exposure to ethylene oxide (EtO) from commercial sterilization facilities and healthcare facilities.

EPA released its annual interactive report tracking America's progress in controlling air pollution. "Our Nation's Air: Trends Through 2022" offers readers an opportunity to learn about the health and environmental impacts of air pollution; track trends in air quality and emissions data, explore efforts to improve visibility in treasured national parks; and explore community-level health impacts of air toxics emissions reported for 2020. EPA examines long-term trends to track the nation's progress toward clean air. The report released today shows that, between 1970 and 2022, the combined emissions of six key pollutants dropped by 78%, while the U.S. economy remained strong -- growing 304% over the same time. The report spotlights the projects selected as part of EPA's Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring Competitive Grants, providing information for each project as of November 2022 when selections were announced. These funds will enhance air quality monitoring in communities across the United States  particularly those that are underserved, historically marginalized, and overburdened by pollution. The report includes interactive graphics that enable citizens, policymakers and stakeholders to view and download detailed information by pollutant, geographic location and year.

This memo communicates EPA's policy to allow generators, transporters, and receiving facilities to execute electronic signatures through system-to-system communication for their non-registered employees and contractors via registered users who are remotely located from the hazardous waste shipment.

EPA proposed new carbon pollution standards for coal and natural gas-fired power plants that will protect public health, reduce harmful pollutants and deliver up to $85 billion in climate and public health benefits over the next two decades. The proposal for coal and new natural gas power plants would avoid up to 617 million metric tons of total carbon dioxide (CO2) through 2042, which is equivalent to reducing the annual emissions of 137 million passenger vehicles, roughly half the cars in the United States. Through 2042, EPA estimates the net climate and health benefits of the standards on new gas and existing coal-fired power plants are up to $85 billion. The proposals would also result in cutting tens of thousands of tons of particulate matter (PM2.5), sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxide, harmful air pollutants that are known to endanger people's health, especially in communities that for too long have disproportionally shouldered the burden of high pollution and environmental injustice.

The attached memorandum communicates EPA's new policy to allow generators, transporters, and receiving facilities to execute electronic signatures through their employees or contractors who are located remotely from the hazardous waste shipment. This policy has been in effect as of February 10, 2023.

EPA announced proposed federal baseline water quality standards for waterbodies on Indian reservations that do not have Clean Water Act standards, ensuring protections for over half a million people living on Indian reservations as well as critical aquatic ecosystems. Fifty years ago, Congress established a goal in the Clean Water Act (CWA) that waters should support fishing and swimming wherever attainable. All states and 47 Tribes have established standards consistent with that goal. However, the majority of U.S. Tribes with Indian reservations lack such water quality standards. This proposal would extend the same framework of water quality protection that currently exists for most other waters of the United States to waters of over 250 Tribes and is the result of decades of coordination and partnership with Tribes.

ASTM's environmental assessment and risk management standards provide the proper procedures for carrying out specific evaluation procedures for identifying and predicting the possible biophysical, social, and other relevant impacts that certain products and projects may have on the natural environment, as well as on the health and safety of the immediate users of such. These environmental assessment and risk management standards are valuable to environmental scientists and engineers, impact assessment institutions, and real estate firms in implementing the appropriate environmental impact designs to ensure overall prevention of the associated contamination risks.

The EPA and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a joint letter to governors to encourage state and local governments to use federal funding to reduce and remove lead in drinking water in early care and education settings, like elementary schools and daycare facilities. EPA and HHS are delivering on the White House's Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan by encouraging federal, state, and local governments to use every tool to deliver clean drinking water, replace lead pipes, and remediate lead paint. Funding for this collaborative initiative can come from the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, among other federal resources. President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is dedicating $15 billion to remove lead from drinking. States can also take administrative measures to support the health and safety of children in early care and education settings by establishing or strengthening licensing and monitoring requirements or improving blood lead screening programs. In addition, states can provide technical assistance and resources to meet lead testing and remediation requirements, including use of the EPA 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) voluntary program to help schools and childcare facilities in reducing lead in drinking water

The purpose of this advisory is to assist hazardous waste handlers in reducing data quality issues in the e-Manifest system and to support their compliance with the law.

(WASHINGTON, March 14, 2023) Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced it is proposing the first-ever national drinking water standard for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the latest action under President Biden's plan to combat PFAS pollution and Administrator Regan's PFAS Strategic Roadmap. Through this action, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking a major step to protect public health from PFAS pollution, leveraging the latest science and complementing state efforts to limit PFAS by proposing to establish legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur in drinking water.

This proposal builds on other key milestones to combat PFAS, including EPA's proposal to designate two PFAS as CERCLA hazardous substances; enhancing data on PFAS under EPA's National PFAS Testing Strategy and through nationwide sampling for 29 PFAS in public drinking water systems; using EPA's Clean Water Act permitting and regulatory programs to reduce PFAS pollution in the environment from industry; and initiating the distribution of $10 billion in funding to address emerging contaminants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

This edition highlights proactively considering the environment and acting accordingly, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #2. Content includes commentary from Mr. Edward Belk, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Director of Civil Works, sharing how the Civil Works mission is being advanced through environmental considerations and partnerships. This issue also features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that proactively consider the environment to shape a sustainable future for current and future generations.

EPA and states have partnered to develop a comprehensive list of Clean Water Act (CWA) violators. Reports include details on violations and enforcement activities by facility, and an annual report with summary compliance and enforcement information by state, tribe, and territory.

This advisory notifies Federal facilities about U.S. EPA's National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI) to reduce the risk to human health and the environment by reducing the likelihood of chemical accidents at Federal facilities with Clean Air Act (CAA) stationary sources that make, use, and store extremely hazardous substances.

The EPA's Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15 (Plan 15) lays out how EPA will work to protect the nation's waterways by following the science and the Clean Water Act to develop technology-based pollution limits and studies on wastewater discharges from industrial sources. This Plan focuses on evaluating the extent and nature of both nutrient and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) discharges. Plan 15 further advances EPA's commitment in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap to restrict PFAS discharges from industrial sources through a multi-faceted Effluent Limitations Guidelines program.

EPA announced it is seeking public comment on its proposal to address environmental justice, climate change, and PFAS contamination in its National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives (NECIs). Every four years, EPA selects national initiatives to focus resources on serious and widespread environmental problems where federal enforcement can make a difference. The primary objective of these initiatives is to protect human health and the environment by holding polluters accountable through enforcement and assisting regulated entities to return to compliance. EPA proposes to continue four of the six current national initiatives during the FY 2024-2027 cycle and return two of the current national initiatives to the core enforcement and compliance program. In addition, EPA proposes to address environmental justice concerns in all NECIs, and to add two new NECIs on mitigating climate change and addressing PFAS pollution, for the FY 2024-2027 cycle.

Have you ever wondered why it matters if a hazardous secondary material is a solid waste? Or what you need to know to determine if something is a solid waste for purposes of RCRA hazardous waste regulation? The amount of hazardous waste regulation depends on the type of material and how it is being managed. Often, hazardous secondary materials being recycled are subject to less or no regulation.

This document, updated in December 2022, describes the requirements of the RCRA organic air emission standards contained in title 40 of the CFR parts 264/265, subparts AA, BB, and CC for hazardous waste TSDFs and generators of hazardous waste.

EPA initiated a rulemaking that will consider revisions to the regulations that allow for the open burning and detonation (OB/OD) of waste explosives. The allowance or "variance" to the prohibition on the open burning of hazardous waste was established at a time when there were no safe alternatives to treatment of waste explosives by OB/OD. However, recent findings from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and EPA determined that safe alternatives are now available for many energetic/explosive waste streams. Because there are safe alternatives in use that capture and treat emissions prior to release, EPA is considering revising regulations to promote the broader use of these alternatives, where applicable.

EPA created a template that persons recycling hazardous secondary materials may choose to use to document their legitimacy determinations. Persons performing the recycling under the generator-controlled exclusion of 40 CFR 261.4(a)(23) must maintain documentation of their legitimacy determinations on-site. Documentation needs to include a written description of how the recycling meets the legitimate recycling factors. This template can also be used to document a claim of legitimate recycling under any other recycling exclusion or exemption.

Learn about the new functions of e-Manifesting to allow users to upload electronic signatures and be able to sign in external systems that have integrated with the e-Manifest API. This new functionality will go live 10 February 2023. Demonstrations using Quicker Sign are provided for Generator, Transporters, and Receiving Facilities.

EPA recently announced a redesign and updates to the statistics webpage for the New Chemicals Review Program. The update includes additional information and metrics on the Agency's review of new chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), increasing transparency for the public, the regulated community and other stakeholders. The new information and features will help users understand EPA's new chemicals review process, throughput, and trends, while highlighting the progress the program has made despite ongoing resource challenges.

EPA hosts a monthly webinar series to communicate the most current EPA research, tools, and resources related to small drinking water systems. This webpage provides links to past trainings for those interested in gaining knowledge and skills related to compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, Building the Capacity of Drinking Water Systems, and Drinking Water Grant Opportunities.

During fiscal year (FY) 2022, EPA's enforcement and compliance program continued its mission to target the most serious water, air, land, and chemical violations and hazards that impact communities across the country. Their work reduced, treated or eliminated 95 million pounds of pollutants, and required violators to pay over $300 million in penalties fines and restitution. Our primary focus was advancing environmental justice (EJ), rebuilding EPA's national inspector corps, and working to mitigate the effects of climate change, particularly in communities overburdened by pollution. EPAs FY 2022 accomplishments focused on protecting vulnerable communities using the full range of compliance monitoring and enforcement tools, including inspections, technical assistance supported by advanced technologies, and early actions and innovative remedies to ensure high levels of compliance with federal environmental laws and regulations.

EPA's detailed guidance document on how recycling and disposal of hand sanitizer is regulated and safety considerations to keep in mind. The purpose of this memo is to provide details about how RCRA hazardous waste regulations and exemptions apply to different scenarios for recycling excess alcohol-based sanitizer.

EPA released the National Biennial Hazardous Waste Report data for the 2021 calendar year. Federal regulations require large quantity generators and treatment, storage, and disposal facilities to submit reports every two years about the nature, quantities, and disposition of hazardous waste generated at their facilities.

EPA has developed a collection of communication tools that can be used to promote the value of sound stormwater management for creating a community where residents want to live and work. Public works managers can use these as part of the public education and outreach efforts of their stormwater permit programs. The materials on the website are organized by the main goals of the Stormwater Smart effort. They cover a wide range of topics and can be used on several platforms.

PHMSA hosted a webinar to present the objectives of the FAQ initiative and answer questions from concerned parties. The overarching concern expressed in comments was that PHMSA may eliminate the LOI process and rescind its existing LOI. During the public webinar, PHMSA clarified that the FAQ initiative compliments the LOI process and that PHMSA has no intention of discontinuing the process to request LOI, rescinding the nearly 7,000 LOI in its database, or limiting the scope of questions PHMSA will answer in the future. The recording is from 27 June 27, 2022.

The November 2022 edition of The Corps Environment is now available and can be accessed online at: https://www.dvidshub.net/publication/issues/65712. This edition highlights providing environmental and economic benefits, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #3. Content includes commentary from Col. Matthew F. Kelly, commander of U.S. Army Environmental Command (USAEC), sharing his impressions after taking command and his focus on building upon USAEC's legacy. This issue also features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are providing enduring environmental benefits around the globe.

The Media Kit, developed by EPA, features communications resources to educate followers, viewers and others about the risks of lead exposure, how to find and hire lead-safe certified contractors and using DIY lead-safe work practices during renovation projects on pre-1978 homes.

The EPA developed this Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities (Lead Strategy) to lay out an all-of-EPA plan to strengthen public health protections, address legacy lead contamination for communities with the greatest exposures, and promote environmental justice and equity.

The plan represents an ambitious effort to deploy resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law while leveraging every tool across federal, state, and local government to deliver clean drinking water, replace lead pipes, and remediate lead paint. The plan includes over 15 new actions from more than 10 federal agencies that ensure the federal government is marshalling every resource to make rapid progress towards replacing all lead pipes in the next decade.

This practical guide helps healthcare facilities, including hospitals, surgery centers, and urgent care facilities, understand the applicable regulations so they can develop compliant, holistic, and cost-effective pharmaceutical waste management programs. The primary focus is to help healthcare facilities understand EPA's hazardous waste regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) as they apply to hazardous waste pharmaceuticals, but other regulations are also discussed.

Beginning in 2015, petroleum refineries were required to install air monitors around the perimeter of their facilities. Petroleum refineries must monitor benzene concentrations and report the results to EPA on a quarterly basis. The Dashboard improves public access to program data concerning benzene emissions along refinery fencelines and allows for a more detailed analysis of that data. Public access to this information advances public transparency and environmental justice.

EPA announced the results of a study that estimates the economic benefits of cleaning up facilities under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Corrective Action program. EPA's analyses of 79 cleanups revealed that these facilities support 1,028 on-site businesses, which provide economic benefits including: $39 billion in annual sales revenue; over 82,000 jobs; and $7.9 billion in estimated annual employment income. EPA also developed brief profiles for more than 40 facilities to showcase the economic benefits that can be fostered through RCRA Corrective Action cleanups.

This tool assists emergency managers and planners in the public and private sectors in creating or updating a comprehensive plan for managing materials and wastes generated from manmade and natural disasters. The tool walks the user through the process of developing and implementing a plan. The tool also contains many resources that can be used as aids to various aspects of the planning process.

This Guide summarizes the current state of the recycling exclusions promulgated under EPA's DSW rulemakings. The litigation history around the DSW rulemakings from 2008 to 2018, coupled with a state's ability to be more stringent than the federal requirements, has resulted in a complex national landscape for this exclusion. This Guide explains that complexity.

EPA's FY 2022-2026 Strategic Plan communicates the Agency's priorities and provides the roadmap for achieving its mission to protect human health and the environment. In this Strategic Plan, the Agency renews its commitment to four principles which are: follow the science, follow the law, be transparent, and advance justice and equity.

(Washington, August 31, 2022) Today, the Biden Administration took a major step forward in achieving the goals of President Biden's Federal Sustainability Plan and Executive Order (E.O.) 14057 Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability by issuing E.O. 14057 Implementing Instructions to Federal agencies.

Through President Biden's historic Executive Order 14057 Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability the U.S. Federal Government leads the world by example again – transforming how it builds, buys, and manages to help make America's economy cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable.

The August 2022 edition of The Corps Environment is now available and can be accessed online at: https://www.dvidshub.net/publication/issues/64976. This edition highlights employing an open and transparent process, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #7. Content within this issue recognizes our U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) environmental and sustainability champions and features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are providing environmental benefits across the globe.

(Honolulu, August 11, 2022) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a Federal Facility Compliance Agreement with the U.S. Marine Corps to make improvements related to stormwater discharges at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) located on the Mokapu Peninsula of Kaneohe, Oahu.

This webinar addresses the Lead Paint Disclosure and RRP rule requirements applicable to DOD housing, other federal facilities and their contractors. The presenters cover the critical regulatory and compliance requirements of these rules, as well as BMPs that help achieve and maintain compliance.

This information bulletin is intended to make Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) permit writers, inspectors, and the regulated community aware of controls, conditions and sampling practices to ensure and determine compliance with RCRA land disposal restrictions (LDRs). LDRs include testing and recordkeeping requirements, treatment standards, various prohibitions and other conditions that ensure hazardous wastes are adequately treated before disposal, thereby minimizing impact on human health and the environment. This document is based on existing regulatory requirements, longstanding guidance, and formal policy, and provides an overview of the basis of LDR requirements. It focuses on strategies that permit writers and facilities can use to improve RCRA permits and Waste Analysis Plans (WAPs), as well as provides inspectors with tools to better determine compliance with LDRs

This edition highlights protecting and preserving our environment, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #4. Content includes commentary from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Environmental Community of Practice leadership, discussing how our actions are directly connected to the environment and shaping a sustainable future. This issue also features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are protecting and preserving our environment for current and future generations.
Included in this issue:
– U.S. Army Environmental Command highlights the recipients of the Secretary of the Army and Secretary of Defense environmental awards.
– USACE Honolulu District shares how they removed thousands of unexploded ordnances in Saipan.
– USACE St. Paul District discusses progress being made under the Upper Mississippi River Restoration program.
– USACE Charleston District highlights a day in the life of a USACE regulatory project manager.
– U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center shares how they are working to address energy and water resiliency.
– USACE Far East District discusses how their stormwater pollution prevention measures are keeping waterways clean.

EPA announced a proposed rule that would require comprehensive reporting on asbestos as the agency continues its work to address exposure to the known carcinogen and strengthen the science used to protect people from this dangerous chemical. The proposed rule under section 8(a) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) would require asbestos manufacturers and processors to report certain use and exposure information, including information pertaining to asbestos-containing articles (including as an impurity). EPA would use data collected through this proposed rule to help inform future actions involving asbestos, including the ongoing risk evaluation for "legacy uses" of asbestos (part two) and potential future risk management activities resulting from that risk evaluation. For example, data collected on asbestos as an impurity could better inform the risk evaluation of the use of asbestos in talc. Additionally, EPA's completed risk evaluation of ongoing asbestos uses (part one) included uses where asbestos may be part of an article, or a component of an end use product, like brake blocks and gaskets. This proposed reporting rule would help identify if there are articles that contain different types of asbestos.

As directed by President Biden's executive order, the Justice Department and EPA developed a strategy that positions the Biden-Harris Administration to leverage all available legal tools to secure protections for communities that have been overburdened by pollution and environmental injustices. This includes restoring Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs), which EPA's enforcement program has used to provide environmental and/or public health benefits to communities harmed by environmental violations. In the development of this strategy, EPA and the Justice Department engaged in listening sessions to hear directly from impacted communities and other stakeholders. This feedback was critical in shaping today's EJ announcements. A Supplemental Environmental Project is an enforcement tool that EPA used for more than 30 years until the previous administration brought it to a halt. SEPs are local projects that defendants can agree to undertake as part of an enforcement case settlement to help rectify environmental violations. SEPs help to fulfill the goals of the underlying statutes being enforced and can provide important environmental and public health benefits to communities that have been harmed by environmental violations.

Strengthening the Nation's Forests, Communities, and Local Economies
April 27, 2022
This EO directs federal agencies to pursue science-based, sustainable forest and land management; conserve America's mature and old-growth forests on Federal lands; invest in forest health and restoration; support indigenous traditional ecological knowledge and cultural and subsistence practices; honor Tribal treaty rights; and deploy climate-smart forestry practices and other nature-based solutions to improve the resilience of our lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of increasing disturbances and chronic stress arising from climate impacts.

EPA is taking action to protect people from asbestos exposure by releasing a proposed rule to prohibit ongoing uses of the only known form of asbestos currently imported into the U.S. This proposed rule is the first-ever risk management rule issued under the new process for evaluating and addressing the safety of existing chemicals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) that was enacted in 2016. The proposed rule would ban chrysotile asbestos, the only known form of asbestos that's currently imported into the U.S., which is found in products like asbestos diaphragms, sheet gaskets, brake blocks, aftermarket automotive brakes/linings, other vehicle friction products, and other gaskets also imported into the U.S.

ECHO Notify provides weekly email notifications of changes to enforcement and compliance data in ECHO. Notifications are tailored to the geographic locations, facility IDs, and notification options that you select. ECHO Notify provides information on all EPA enforcement and compliance activities as well as activities of state and local governments under the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

PHMSA is announcing an initiative to convert historical letters of interpretation (LOI) applicable to the Hazardous Materials Regulations that have been issued to specific stakeholders into broadly applicable frequently asked questions on its website. By creating a repository of frequently asked questions, PHMSA seeks to eliminate the need for recurring requests for common letters of interpretations. This Federal Register Notice introduces this initiative and its objectives to those subject to the Hazardous Materials Regulations. PHMSA's objective is to gain insight regarding the utility of this initiative and topics to prioritize in the development of future frequently asked questions. PHMSA requests comment on the initiative and input on the prioritization of future sets of frequently asked questions.

REMINDER: Registration to attend the 2022 Federal Environmental Symposium is now open! Federal employees and sponsored contractors are invited to attend the Symposium, hosted by NIH as a virtual event on March 28-31, 2022. The theme of this year's event is "Mission, Environment and Our Community". The event is FREE and registration will end Friday, March 18, 2022, so mark your calendar and register now. For more information, please see the Symposium website at https://www.fedcenter.gov/fes2022.

EPA reinstated California's authority under the Clean Air Act to implement its own greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards and zero emission vehicle (ZEV) sales mandate. This action concludes the agency's reconsideration of 2019's Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient Vehicles Rule Part One: One National Program Rule (SAFE-1) by finding that the actions taken under the previous administration as a part of SAFE-1 were decided in error and are now entirely rescinded. With this action, EPA is also withdrawing the SAFE-1 interpretation of the Clean Air Act that would prohibit other states from adopting the California GHG emission standards. As a result, other states may choose to adopt and enforce California's GHG emission standards in lieu of the Federal standards, consistent with section 177 of the Clean Air Act.

Section 7321 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (NDAA) immediately added certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the list of chemicals covered by the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) under Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and provided a framework for additional PFAS to be added to TRI on an annual basis. TRI data are reported to EPA annually by facilities in certain industry sectors, including federal facilities, that manufacture, process, or otherwise use TRI-listed chemicals above certain quantities. The data include quantities of such chemicals that were released into the environment or otherwise managed as waste. Information collected through the TRI allows communities to learn how facilities in their area are managing listed chemicals. The data collected also help inform EPA's efforts to better understand the listed substances.

ABSTRACT SUBMITTAL DEADLINE EXTENDED TO FRIDAY JAN. 14th:The Federal sustainability community is cordially invited to attend the 2022 Federal Environmental Symposium, March 28-31, 2022. This year's theme is Mission, Environment, and Our Communities, and will be conducted via webinar-format only. The four day event will focus on Federal sustainability initiatives over the past year while encouraging partnerships, sharing of information, and best practices amongst Federal facilities. The event schedule, registration instructions, call for presentation abstracts (now open until Friday, January 14th), and continuous updates to the event can be found on the Symposium website.

WASHINGTON (Dec. 28, 2021) -- In 2021, under the new leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration and Administrator Michael S. Regan, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took significant steps forward in tackling the climate crisis, advancing environmental justice, protecting the health and safety of communities across the country, and restoring scientific integrity.

This course seeks to enhance the knowledge and skills of emergency management agencies (EMAs) and drinking water and wastewater utilities (water sector) to enable more effective cross-sector relationships. Upon competition of this course the attendee will be able to: Identify and define key actors in the water and emergency services sectors; Understand the landscape for both drinking- and wastewater utilities; Identify water or wastewater service disruptions and possible impacts; Understand recommended preparedness and coordination activities based on AWIA; Understand the benefits of relationship building between sectors; Identify immediate action items to improve the overall response effort of drinking water and wastewater utilities and EMAs; Understand the importance of increasing coordinating between drinking water and wastewater utilities and EMAs; and Identify key actors and action items for improving preparedness and response before and during an emergency.

Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability
December 8, 2021; Revoked by: EO 14148 20 January 2025
President Biden has signed an Executive Order that demonstrates how the United States will leverage its scale and procurement power to lead by example in tackling the climate crisis. The executive order will reduce emissions across federal operations, invest in American clean energy industries and manufacturing, and create clean, healthy, and resilient communities.

(12/08/2021) President Biden has signed an executive order that demonstrates how the United States will leverage its scale and procurement power to lead by example in tackling the climate crisis. The executive order will reduce emissions across federal operations, invest in American clean energy industries and manufacturing, and create clean, healthy, and resilient communities. The President is building on his whole-of-government effort to tackle the climate crisis in a way that creates well-paying jobs, grows industries, and makes the country more economically competitive.

EPA is announcing legally mandated changes to the fee requirements under TSCA. TSCA directs EPA to adjust the fees every three years. Accordingly, an adjustment will go into effect on 1 January 2022, and will apply to all TSCA fees. In a separate action, in 2022, EPA plans to propose additional revisions to the 2018 TSCA fees rule to supplement the agency’s proposal from 11 January 2021 to ensure that TSCA fee amounts capture up to 25% of the actual costs of TSCA activities, fees are distributed equitably, and fee payers are identified through a transparent process.

EPA and U.S. Department of the Army announced a proposed rule to re-establish the pre-2015 definition of "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) which had been in place for decades, updated to reflect consideration of Supreme Court decisions. This action advances the agencies' goal of establishing a durable definition of WOTUS that protects public health, the environment, and downstream communities while supporting economic opportunity, agriculture, and other industries that depend on clean water. This proposed rule would support a stable implementation of "waters of the United States" while the agencies continue to consult with states, Tribes, local governments, and a broad array of stakeholders in both the implementation of WOTUS and future regulatory actions. The proposed rule would maintain the longstanding exclusions of the pre-2015 regulations as well as the exemptions and exclusions in the Clean Water Act on which the agricultural community has come to rely.

EPA outlined plans to initiate the rulemaking process for two new actions under the hazardous waste law, reflecting the agency's focus on using best available science and leveraging authorities to combat this shared challenge. EPA is announcing the initiation of two rulemakings. First, the agency will initiate the process to propose adding four PFAS chemicals as RCRA Hazardous Constituents under Appendix VIII, by evaluating the existing data for these chemicals and establishing a record to support such a proposed rule. The four PFAS chemicals EPA will evaluate are: PFOA, PFOS, PFBS, and GenX. Adding these chemicals as RCRA Hazardous Constituents would ensure they are subject to corrective action requirements and would be a necessary building block for future work to regulate PFAS as a listed hazardous waste. The second rulemaking effort will clarify in our regulations that the RCRA Corrective Action Program has the authority to require investigation and cleanup for wastes that meet the statutory definition of hazardous waste, as defined under RCRA section 1004(5). This modification would clarify that emerging contaminants such as PFAS can be cleaned up through the RCRA corrective action process. These actions build on EPA's broader strategy to comprehensively address PFAS pollution across the country.

The latest TSCA Inventory is now available. The TSCA Inventory is a list of all existing chemical substances manufactured, processed, or imported in the U.S. This biannual update to the public TSCA Inventory is part of EPA's regular posting of non-confidential TSCA Inventory data. The next regular update of the Inventory is planned for winter 2022. The Inventory contains 86,607 chemicals of which 41,953 are active in U.S commerce. Other updates to the TSCA Inventory include new chemical substance additions, commercial activity data and regulatory flags, such as polymer exemptions, TSCA section 4 test orders and TSCA section 5 significant new use rules (SNURs).