EPA Loosens Waste Signing Rules: Contractors Get Green Light Without Feds
Published Date: 4/8/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA is updating its rules to let contractors sign hazardous waste forms at more sites, not just Superfund locations. This change means work can keep going even when EPA staff aren’t around, speeding up cleanup and waste removal. If you’re a contractor working with the EPA, get ready to follow this new rule once it’s finalized after June 8, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Contractors Authorized to Sign Waste Manifests
If you are an EPA contractor, the proposed clause lets you sign the EPA Form 8700-22 (Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest) and non-hazardous shipping manifests at EPA worksites. You must sign after writing or printing the phrase "On behalf of the United States Environmental Protection Agency" in the signature block; the clause can be used for Superfund sites (main clause), EPA Non-Superfund sites (Alternate I), or non-hazardous waste (Alternate II), and it may be inserted in subcontracts.
Work Continues Without EPA On-Site
The proposal allows work to continue at EPA cleanup sites when EPA personnel are not present, which the EPA says will prevent work stoppages and result in cost savings and uninterrupted cleanup. The change applies where the clause is inserted in contracts covering off-site transport of hazardous or non-hazardous wastes.
EPA Will Require COI Controls in Procurements
The EPA says it will implement management controls and address conflicts of interest (COI) during the COI review for worksite cleanup procurements to prevent conflicts of interest and fraud. This applies where contractors are authorized to sign manifests under the new clause.
No Significant Small-Entity Economic Impact
The EPA certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this action "will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities," and that it "will not impose any requirements on small entities."
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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