EPA Drops EIS on Power Lines: Environmental Wonks, Rejoice (or Nap)

2026-11047 — National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants From Hazardous Waste Combustors: Residual Risk and Technology Review

The EPA just updated rules for places that burn hazardous waste, like incinerators and boilers, to keep the air safe and clean. They confirmed current standards work well but added new limits on harmful gases like hydrogen fluoride and hydrogen cyanide. These changes start June 3, 2026, and include easier electronic reporting and some new rules for startup and shutdown times—helping protect health without big costs.

2026-10641 — Hazardous and Solid Waste Management System: Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities; Federal CCR Permit Program; Reopening of Comment Period

The EPA is reopening the comment period until June 29, 2026, for its proposed rule to create a federal permit program for safely disposing of coal ash from power plants. This affects electric utilities that handle coal waste and aims to improve environmental safety while possibly impacting their costs. Now’s the time for everyone to share their thoughts and help shape the rules!

2026-10387 — Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Reconsideration of Certain Regulatory Requirements Promulgated Under the Technology Transitions Provisions of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020

The EPA is updating rules to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chemicals used in cooling systems like refrigerators and air conditioners. These changes affect businesses in refrigeration, supermarkets, semiconductor manufacturing, and more, allowing some older equipment made before 2025 to keep running. The new rules kick in on July 27, 2026, helping industries transition smoothly while cutting harmful emissions.

2026-10086 — Extending the Compliance Deadline for the PFOA and PFOS Maximum Contaminant Levels

The EPA is giving water systems more time to meet safety rules for two harmful chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, by extending the deadline from April 2029 to April 2031 if they ask for it. This helps water providers get ready without rushing, keeping our drinking water safe. The EPA wants your thoughts and will hold a public hearing in July 2026 to hear from everyone.

2026-10085 — Rescission of Regulatory Determinations and Removal of Related Provisions for Four PFAS Substances (PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and the Mixture of These Three PFAS Plus PFBS)

The EPA is proposing to undo its rules for four PFAS chemicals (PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, and a mix including PFBS) in drinking water because the original process wasn’t done right. This means public water systems won’t have to monitor or treat these chemicals for now. People and water providers should weigh in by July 20, 2026, and a virtual hearing happens July 7.

2026-09895 — Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category-Unmanaged Combustion Residual Leachate

The EPA is updating rules for steam electric power plants to better control dirty water leaking from leftover coal waste. This change affects existing power plants and is expected to save up to $1 billion a year while protecting water quality. Comments on the proposal are open until June 17, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!

Previous: 2026-04957 — Notice of Determinations; Culturally Significant Objects Being Imported for Exhibition-Determinations: “Musical Bodies” Exhibition

The U.S. government has approved special cultural objects for a cool new exhibit called “Musical Bodies” at The Met in New York. These items are coming from other countries just for a temporary show, and this display is considered important for everyone in the U.S. No money changes hands here, but the exhibit will bring exciting art and culture to the public soon.

Next: 2026-04959 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension: Rule 19b-4 and Form 19b-4

The SEC is asking to extend the paperwork rules for self-regulatory organizations (SROs) like stock exchanges and clearing agencies. These groups must keep the SEC in the loop about any rule changes or new security-based swaps they want to clear. This extension keeps the process smooth, helps manage risks, and doesn’t add new costs or deadlines right now.