Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Laws and Regulations

EPA to Authorize Alaska's Hazardous Waste Management Program

On May 14, 2026, EPA published a tentative determination to the State of Alaska to grant final authorization of its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. This is the first new state to seek authorization in over 25 years! 

If granted, Alaska's program will operate in lieu of the federal hazardous waste program. EPA will accept comments through July 2, 2026. 

Facilitating Scrap Tire Pile Cleanups

On March 20, 2026, EPA announced a proposal to revise the waste regulations to facilitate the cleanup of abandoned scrap tires and help increase their use as an alternative fuel in cement kilns. 

This rule aims to enhance the recovery of energy resources as well as contribute to safer communities by addressing the health risks scrap tires pose from tire pile fires and disease-carrying animals.

Final Rulemaking Petition Denial

On October 18, 2023, EPA denied a petition from a coalition of industry members requesting revisions to the non-hazardous secondary materials regulations. 

Transforming U.S. Recycling and Waste Management

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is a historic investment in American communities. EPA developed three new waste prevention, reuse, and recycling programs.