Plain-English summary
To decide whether states can run EPA-authorized hazardous-waste permitting programs that apply to federal‑
The Court agreed to hear whether the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) allows the EPA to authorize states and territories to run hazardous‑waste permitting programs that cover facilities run by the federal government. The petition comes from the Department of the Air Force and other federal parties challenging a Ninth Circuit ruling favoring the Guam-based group Prutehi Guahan.
Why this matters
The decision will determine who sets and enforces hazardous‑waste permits for federal facilities in states and territories—federal agencies or EPA‑authorized local regulators. That affects how environmental standards are applied, who enforces compliance, and how quickly cleanup or permitting decisions are made on federal lands and installations.
Who may feel it
- Federal agencies that operate hazardous‑waste treatment facilities (e.g., military branches)
- State and territorial environmental regulators seeking EPA authorization under RCRA
- Local communities near federal facilities (e.g., residents of Guam)
- Environmental and public‑health advocacy groups
- Businesses and contractors that handle or manage hazardous waste on federal property
Key questions
- Does RCRA permit the EPA to authorize state or territorial hazardous‑waste permitting programs that cover facilities operated by the federal government?