Alaska: Tentative Determination on Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program

Abstract

The State of Alaska (Alaska or the State) has applied to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA or the Agency) for final authorization of its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, as amended (RCRA). The EPA has reviewed Alaska's application and made a tentative determination that Alaska's hazardous waste program satisfies all requirements for final authorization. Thus, the EPA expects to grant final authorization for the State to operate its program subject to the limitations on its authority retained by the EPA in accordance with RCRA, including the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 (HSWA). If the EPA issues a final approval of Alaska's hazardous waste program, Alaska's program will operate in lieu of the Federal hazardous waste program. The EPA will retain jurisdiction and authority to implement RCRA in Indian country and areas of exclusive Federal jurisdiction in Alaska. Alaska's application for final authorization is available for public review and comment until July 2, 2026. If sufficient public interest is demonstrated, the EPA will hold a public hearing on the application June 25, 2026. The EPA intends to publish a final determination in the Federal Register within 90 days of this tentative determination.