Rules and Regulations. Extension of Comment Period

Agency: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Action: Extension of Comment Period
Citation: FR Doc. 2016-15134 · RIN 2040-AF25 · EPA-HQ-OW-2016-0145; FRL-9948-35-OW · 40 CFR 122, 123, 124, 125

Summary

EPA is extending the comment period for the notice, “National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): Applications and Program Updates.” In response to stakeholder requests, EPA is extending the comment period for an additional 15 days, from July 18, 2016 to August 2, 2016.

Dates

The comment period for the notice that was published on May 18, 2016 (81 FR 31344), is extended. Comments must be received on or before August 2, 2016.

Supplementary Information

On May 18, 2016 EPA published in the Federal Register (81 FR 31344) a proposed rule that would make targeted revisions to the NPDES regulations. These revisions would make the regulations consistent with the 1987 CWA Amendments and with applicable judicial decisions. These revisions would delete certain regulatory provisions that are no longer in effect and clarify the level of documentation that permit writers must provide for permitting decisions. EPA is also asking for public comments on potential ways to enhance public notice and participation in the permitting process. CWA section 402 established the NPDES permitting program and gives EPA authority to write regulations to implement the NPDES program. 33 U.S.C. 1342(a)(1), (2). The proposed rule, as initially published in the Federal Register , provided for written comments to be submitted to EPA on or before July 18, 2016 (a 60-day public comment period). Since publication, EPA has received a request for additional time to submit comments. EPA is extending the public comment period for 15 days until August 2, 2016. Dated: June 17, 2016. Joel Beauvais, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Water. [FR Doc. 2016-15134 Filed 6-24-16; 8:45 am]