In early September, the USEPA released its Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. This update provided a brief look at the agency’s current priorities for water-related regulations. Since then, a government shutdown has occurred, which could delay some of the timelines mentioned. A new version of the agenda is expected by the end of 2025.
Recent Updates to Water and Wastewater Regulations
1) PFAS Effluent Limits for Manufacturers: The USEPA plans to update the rules that limit wastewater discharges from facilities that make PFAS chemicals. This update falls under the Effluent Guidelines Plan 15. A draft rule is expected in January 2026.
2) PFAS Reporting in Discharge Permits (NPDES): The USEPA intends to add PFAS to the list of pollutants that facilities must report when applying for or renewing wastewater discharge permits (NPDES). A proposed rule is expected in November 2025, with a final version by May 2027.
3) Steam Electric Power Plants – Rule Reconsideration: The USEPA is re-evaluating its wastewater standards for power plants that burn coal, especially those that handle coal ash (CCR) leachate. The agency plans to propose changes in November 2025 and finalize them by May 2026.
4) Definition of “Waters of the United States”: Following the 2023 Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court decision, the USEPA and the U.S. Army are revising the Waters of the United States definition to make it simpler and easier to define. The proposal has been sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review, so the original timeline for finalizing the rule in January 2026 will likely be delayed.
5) Drinking Water Rules: The USEPA is working on several drinking water updates, including:
- Revisions to rules on microbes and disinfection byproducts
- Updates to water testing methods
- The sixth round of unregulated contaminant monitoring (UCMR 6)
- PFAS-related changes, such as delaying compliance deadlines for the PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation
Contact U.S. Water For Guidance
At U.S. Water, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these evolving regulations. By staying ahead of federal and state requirements, we ensure the highest standards of water quality and safety. Please contact us to learn how we can support your compliance and operational needs.