Environment
Regulations related to environmental protection, clean air, clean water, and climate policy.
5 regulationsEnergy Conservation Standards for Residential Furnaces and Commercial Water Heaters
This proposed rule would update energy conservation standards for residential furnaces and commercial water heaters to reflect the maximum technologically feasible and economically justified energy efficiency levels. The proposed standards would effectively require condensing technology for most residential gas furnaces, raising minimum efficiency from 80% AFUE to 95% AFUE.
Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Oil and Natural Gas Sector Methane Emission Reduction
This proposed rule would tighten methane emission standards for the oil and natural gas sector by requiring advanced leak detection, continuous monitoring at compressor stations, and a phasedown of routine flaring. The EPA estimates the rule would reduce methane emissions by 80 percent from covered sources by 2030.
Lead and Copper Rule Improvements; Strengthening Protections for Communities With Lead Service Lines
This final rule strengthens drinking water protections by requiring water systems to replace lead service lines within ten years. It lowers the lead action level from 15 parts per billion to 10 parts per billion and mandates improved tap water sampling methods to better identify communities at risk of lead exposure.
National Primary Drinking Water Regulation: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
This final rule establishes the first-ever legally enforceable national drinking water standards for six PFAS compounds, commonly known as 'forever chemicals.' Public water systems must monitor for these contaminants and reduce levels below the maximum contaminant levels within five years, protecting approximately 100 million people from PFAS exposure.
The Enhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors
This notice announces the voluntary stay of the SEC's climate-related disclosure rules pending the resolution of consolidated legal challenges in the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. The rules, which would require publicly traded companies to disclose material climate-related risks and greenhouse gas emissions, remain on the books but compliance dates are paused until further order.