Regulatory Watch List

Federal Regulations to Watch

Last updated May 4, 2026.

Army Corps of Engineers

Nationwide Permits (NWP) Program – Future Changes: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking public input on potential future changes to the Nationwide Permit program, which authorizes activities with minimal impacts under Clean Water Act Section 404 and the Rivers and Harbors Act. The notice requests feedback on ways to improve the efficiency, clarity, and implementation of NWPs, including potential new permits and revisions to existing categories.

Comment deadline May 15.

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Council on Environmental Quality

[NEW] CEQ Permitting Innovators Initiative: The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is seeking submissions for its new “Permitting Innovators” initiative, which aims to improve federal permitting through technology-driven tools and implementation approaches. The effort is focused on identifying scalable solutions to streamline environmental reviews, enhance interagency coordination, and reduce project delays across federal programs. For ARTBA members, this creates an opportunity to highlight proven practices that have improved project delivery and could be deployed more broadly.

Comment deadline June 2.

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Environmental Protection Agency

[NEW] PFAS Destruction and Disposal Guidance: EPA is seeking public comment on updated interim guidance for the destruction and disposal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The guidance reflects evolving science and evaluates available technologies, including thermal treatment, landfilling, and underground injection, to inform how PFAS wastes can be managed. EPA is requesting input on data gaps, effectiveness, and potential risks to support future updates.

Comment deadline June 29.

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Occupational Safety and Health Administration

[NEW] Walking-Working Surfaces (Fixed Ladders): OSHA is proposing to revise its Walking-Working Surfaces standard by removing the 2036 deadline for retrofitting fixed ladders over 24 feet with ladder safety or personal fall arrest systems. The proposal would allow existing ladders with cages or wells to remain in use until replacement, while maintaining requirements for new or replaced ladders. OSHA is also seeking input on whether to revise or eliminate certain fall protection requirements for these ladders.