EPA Seeks Renewal of Chemical Spill Reporting Forms
Published Date: 6/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The EPA wants to keep collecting info from companies about ongoing chemical releases to keep communities safe and informed. This affects businesses that report under two big environmental laws and asks for public feedback by August 25, 2026. No big changes or extra costs are planned—just a smooth extension of current rules through 2027.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
When You Must Report Continuous Releases
If your facility or vessel releases a hazardous substance at or above its reportable quantity (RQ) listed in 40 CFR 302.4, you must immediately notify the National Response Center. If the release is continuous, you must file a written follow-up report to EPA Headquarters one year after the initial written report unless the source or composition changes or the release significantly increases, in which case you must notify EPA and the National Response Center immediately.
Nationwide Reporting Burden and Cost
EPA estimates 4,250 respondents for the Continuous Release Reporting ICR, with a total annual burden of 38,625 hours and total annual costs of $2,487,450 (including $12,378 in annualized capital or O&M costs). These are the agency's current estimated time and money impacts for the information collection.
Public Access and Emergency Use of Release Data
Release information collected under the Continuous Release Reporting program is available to federal, state, and local agencies for emergency planning and response, and the public can request release information through the Freedom of Information Act. The data help determine whether federal response actions, new regulations, or permitting changes are needed to protect public health and the environment.
ICR Extension Keeps Reporting In Place
The EPA is proposing to extend the current information collection for Continuous Release Reporting (ICR Number 1445.16, OMB Control Number 2050-0086) and the ICR is currently approved through April 30, 2027. The agency is asking for public comments by August 25, 2026 and does not plan major changes or extra costs beyond the existing requirements.
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Key Dates
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