On March 24, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed extending certain compliance deadlines under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for perchloroethylene (PCE) and carbon tetrachloride (CTC). This action aims to provide additional time for industries to effectively implement risk management requirements while ensuring continued protection of human health and the environment.
Revised Compliance Timeline
The EPA’s proposal focuses on extending specific Workplace Chemical Protection Program deadlines, particularly for non-federal entities, to align them with those applicable to federal agencies and contractors. While these extensions are under consideration, existing compliance deadlines remain in effect until formally updated through rulemaking.
The agency clarified that this adjustment does not weaken regulatory protections or alter the determination that both chemicals pose an unreasonable risk. Instead, it is intended to support practical and effective compliance.
Industry and Regulatory Impact
Perchloroethylene is widely used in metal degreasing and manufacturing processes, while carbon tetrachloride serves as a feedstock in the production of refrigerants and other chemicals. Stakeholder feedback indicated that the original compliance timelines were difficult to implement, potentially leading to ineffective or rushed compliance measures.
By revising these timelines, the EPA aims to ensure that safety controls are properly installed, maintained, and functional, while minimizing disruption to industrial operations and economic activity.
Ongoing Rule Revisions and Legal Context
The EPA confirmed that both TSCA rules are currently under legal challenge and are being reconsidered for improvements. The agency plans to publish revised proposals around summer 2026. In the interim, enforcement actions related to reconsidered elements will require additional internal approvals. Public comments on the proposal will be accepted for 30 days following publication in the Federal Register under docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2026-0992.
