Environmental Justice Tracker

EJ Tracker Update

EPA Proposed Adding PFAS as Regulated Hazardous Substances in Cleanups Under TSCA

Last updated:

February 8, 2024

Statute

RCRA

Agencies

EPA

Actions

Proposed Rule

EPA announced two proposed rules expanding the regulation of hazardous waste at certain facilities to include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are used in a wide variety of industry and consumer products, and are linked to harmful health effects. Hazardous waste cleanup represents a critical part of EPA’s environmental justice efforts. The first proposed rule, “Definition of Hazardous Waste Applicable to Corrective Action for Releases From Solid Waste Management Units”, would modify the definition of hazardous waste as it applies to cleanups at hazardous waste facilities to cover emerging chemicals of concern, among other changes. Read the first proposed rule modifying the definition. The second proposed rule, “Listing of Specific PFAS as Hazardous Constituents”, would add multiple PFAS compounds as hazardous constituents, meaning they would be considered in facility assessments, and if necessary, investigation and cleanups at hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facilities. Read the proposed rule listing PFAS as Hazardous Constituents.