What: On March 27, 2026, the EPA proposed extending compliance deadlines for Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) rules on the use of perchloroethylene (PCE) and carbon tetrachloride (CTC).
Why: The EPA finalized rules on the use of both PCE and CTC in December of 2024. In 2025, the EPA decided to review both rules. The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy) submitted comment letters supporting the EPA’s reviews, noting that the PCE and CTC rules were both based on incorrect readings of the TSCA and imposed unnecessary regulatory burdens on small entities. Advocacy’s comment letters are cited by the EPA in support of extending the compliance deadlines.
The EPA’s proposed rule would:
- Extend the PCE and CTC compliance date for initial monitoring for inhalation exposure to June 21, 2027.
- Extend the PCE and CTC compliance date to meet the existing chemical exposure limit, establish a regulated area, provide any required respiratory personal protective equipment (PPE), and establish a respiratory PPE program to September 20, 2027.
- Extend the PCE compliance date for non-federal entities to establish and implement an exposure control plan to December 20, 2027.
PCE is used in production of fluorinated compounds, as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing, and in lubricants, adhesives and sealants. A variety of consumer and commercial products use PCE, such as adhesives (arts and crafts, as well as light repairs), aerosol degreasers, brake cleaners, aerosol lubricants, sealants, stone polish, stainless steel polish, and wipe cleaners. PCE is also used in dry cleaning.
CTC is primarily used as a feedstock to make products such as refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and foam-blowing agents. Prior regulations have resulted in a phaseout of CTC production in the United States for most non-feedstock domestic uses, such as degreasers and fire suppressants.
Action: Comments are due April 27, 2026.
PROPOSED RULE:
CONTACT: Nick Goldstein
EMAIL: nick.goldstein@sba.gov
Is your small business or entity being impacted by a proposed rule? If yes, write a comment letter to the proposing agency.