98-34044. Universal Waste Rule (Hazardous Waste Management System; Modification of the Hazardous Waste Recycling Regulatory Program)  

  • [Federal Register Volume 63, Number 247 (Thursday, December 24, 1998)]
    [Rules and Regulations]
    [Pages 71225-71230]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 98-34044]
    
    
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    ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
    
    40 CFR Parts 266 and 273
    
    [FRL-6207-7]
    RIN 2050-AD19
    
    
    Universal Waste Rule (Hazardous Waste Management System; 
    Modification of the Hazardous Waste Recycling Regulatory Program)
    
    AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency.
    
    ACTION: Final rule; correcting amendments.
    
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is correcting errors 
    that appeared in the Universal Waste Rule which was published in the 
    Federal Register (FR) on May 11, 1995 (60 FR 25492). This final rule 
    creates no new regulatory requirements; rather it: makes three 
    corrections to the regulations governing management of spent lead-acid 
    batteries that are reclaimed; corrects the definition of a small 
    quantity universal waste handler; and clarifies the export requirements 
    which apply to destination facilities when destination facilities act 
    as universal waste handlers.
    
    EFFECTIVE DATE: December 24, 1998.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For general information, contact the 
    RCRA/Superfund Hotline at (800) 424-9346 (toll free) or TDD 800 553-
    7672 (hearing impaired). Contact the RCRA Hotline in the Washington, 
    D.C. metropolitan area at (703) 412-9810 or TDD 703 412-3323. For 
    specific information concerning the Universal Waste Rule, contact Mr. 
    Bryan Groce at (703) 308-8750, Office of Solid Waste, U.S. 
    Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 
    20460, mailcode 5304W. This rule is available on the Internet. Please 
    follow these instructions to access the rule electronically: From the 
    World Wide Web (WWW), type://www.epa.gov/epaoswer, then select option 
    for Laws and Regulations. The official record for this action is kept 
    in a paper format.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
    
    Table of Contents
    
    1. What is the statutory authority for this rule?
    2. Does this rule create any new federal requirements?
    3. What does this rule do?
    4. Why are the clarifications and corrections necessary?
    5. What other changes have been made as a result of this rule?
    6. What federal requirements apply to spent lead-acid batteries?
    7. Why are there two options for managing lead-acid batteries?
    8. Is lead-acid battery regeneration a type of reclamation? If yes, 
    why did EPA decide to regulate it differently from other lead-acid 
    battery reclamation?
    9. How does today's technical correction clarify requirements for 
    handling spent lead-acid batteries that will be regenerated?
    10. How does today's technical correction affect management 
    requirements for storing lead-acid batteries before reclaiming them?
    11. How does today's technical correction change the definition of 
    ``small quantity handler of universal waste?''
    12. How is EPA correcting requirements related to exports of 
    universal wastes?
    13. Why isn't EPA proposing these changes for public comment and 
    establishing an effective date later than the promulgation date?
    14. Does this technical correction meet conditions described in the 
    Executive Order 12866, the Regulatory Flexibility Act, the Unfunded 
    Mandates Reform Act of 1995, the Paperwork Reduction Act, the 
    National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995, and the 
    Executive Orders 13045, 12875, and 13084?
    15. Has EPA submitted this rule to Congress and the General 
    Accounting Office?
    
    [[Page 71226]]
    
    1. What Is the Statutory Authority for This Rule?
    
        EPA is issuing this rule under the authority of sections 1006, 
    2002(a), 3002, 3003, 3004, 3005, 3010 and 3017 as amended by the 
    Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (codified as 42 U.S.C. 
    6905, 6912(a), 6922, 6923, 6924, 6925, 6930, and 6937).
    
    2. Does This Rule Create Any New Federal Requirements?
    
        No. This rule is a technical correction and creates no new 
    regulatory requirements. Rather, it corrects certain regulatory 
    provisions that apply to regenerating and storing lead-acid batteries. 
    The lead-acid battery provisions and the provisions for battery 
    regeneration were originally included in a final rule promulgated on 
    January 4, 1985 Final Rule (50 FR 614) and were mistakenly changed, 
    deleted or incorrectly worded in the final Universal Waste Rule of May 
    11, 1995 (60 FR 25492). This rule also corrects the definition of a 
    small quantity universal waste handler, and clarifies the export 
    requirements which apply to destination facilities when destination 
    facilities act as universal waste handlers.
    
    3. What Does This Rule Do?
    
        This rule amends portions in Chapter 40 of the Code of Federal 
    Regulations (CFR) Parts 266 and 273. Specifically, the rule:
        (a) Clarifies the lead-acid battery regeneration exemption (40 CFR 
    266.80(a)).
        (b) Clarifies that lead-acid batteries that are stored before 
    reclamation other than regeneration must be managed in accordance with 
    the lead-acid battery storage requirements. (See 40 CFR 266.80(b)).
        (c) Reinserts the spent lead-acid battery storage requirements 
    which were mistakenly left out in the May 11, 1995 Universal Waste 
    Rule.
        (d) Corrects the current definition of small quantity universal 
    waste handler found in the regulatory text in order to be consistent 
    with the correct definition in the preamble to the final rule (40 CFR 
    273.6).
        (e) Corrects preamble statements providing the regulatory 
    references for universal waste export requirements that apply to 
    destination facilities.
    
    4. Why Are the Clarifications and Corrections in This Rule 
    Necessary?
    
        The Universal Waste Rule inadvertently:
        (a) Created confusion about requirements for handling spent lead-
    acid batteries that will be regenerated.
        (b) Deleted management requirements for storing lead-acid batteries 
    before reclaiming them.
        (c) Defined ``small quantity handler of universal waste'' 
    incorrectly.
        (d) Included in the preamble an incorrect citation for export 
    requirements which apply to destination facilities that export 
    universal wastes.
    
    5. What Other Changes Have Been Made as a Result of This Rule?
    
        EPA has chosen to rewrite and reorganize Sec. 266.80, which covers 
    requirements for lead-acid batteries that are to be reclaimed so that 
    they are clearer and easier to use. These changes are made as part of 
    the Agency's ongoing efforts at regulatory reinvention. Although the 
    format has changed as a result of rewriting the regulatory text in 
    ``plain language,'' this final rule creates no new regulatory 
    requirements. EPA is not intending to revise, reopen or reconsider the 
    merits of any other aspects of the existing regulatory requirements at 
    40 CFR 266.80.
        It is important to understand that all of the requirements found in 
    today's final regulations, including those set forth in table format, 
    constitute binding, enforceable legal requirements. The plain language 
    format used in today's final regulation for lead-acid batteries may 
    appear different from other rules, but it establishes binding, 
    enforceable legal requirements like those in the existing regulations 
    at 40 CFR part 266.
    
    6. What Federal Requirements Apply to Spent Lead-Acid Batteries?
    
        The federal regulations that apply to spent lead-acid batteries 
    have changed over time. The following table summarizes how the 
    requirements have evolved:
    
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Date                                       Rule                                 Legal requirements
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    1-4-85..................  40 CFR 266.30 (subsequently changed to 40 CFR 266.80)....  (1) Exempts spent lead-acid
                                                                                          batteries from hazardous
                                                                                          waste management
                                                                                          requirements when they
                                                                                          are:
                                                                                         (a) Handled by anyone
                                                                                          (i.e., retailers,
                                                                                          wholesalers, local service
                                                                                          stations) other than
                                                                                          reclaimers (i.e., a
                                                                                          battery cracker or
                                                                                          secondary lead smelter);
                                                                                         (b) Collected and stored at
                                                                                          intermediate facilities
                                                                                          (i.e., collection
                                                                                          facilities) before being
                                                                                          sent to reclaimers; and
                                                                                         (c) Transported.
                                                                                         (2) Requires battery
                                                                                          crackers or secondary lead
                                                                                          smelters to manage spent
                                                                                          lead-acid batteries as
                                                                                          hazardous waste when
                                                                                          storing the batteries
                                                                                          before reclaiming them.
    1-4-85..................  40 CFR 261.6(a)(3)(ii)...................................  Exempts spent lead-acid and
                                                                                          other batteries from
                                                                                          hazardous waste management
                                                                                          requirements if they are
                                                                                          returned to a battery
                                                                                          manufacturer for
                                                                                          regeneration.
    5-11-95.................  Universal Waste Rule 40 CFR Part 273.....................  (1) Removed the provision
                                                                                          (40 CFR 261.6(a)(3)(ii))
                                                                                          that exempted batteries
                                                                                          from hazardous waste
                                                                                          management requirements if
                                                                                          they are to be
                                                                                          regenerated.
                                                                                         (2) Non-lead acid batteries
                                                                                          (except as provided in
                                                                                          Public Law 104-142,
                                                                                          entitled the ``Mercury-
                                                                                          containing and
                                                                                          Rechargeable Battery
                                                                                          Management Act'') may be
                                                                                          managed in accordance with
                                                                                          requirements in either:
                                                                                         (a) Universal Waste Rule
                                                                                          (40 CFR Part 273); or
                                                                                         (b) Full Subtitle C
                                                                                          regulation (40 CFR Parts
                                                                                          260 through 272).
                                                                                         (3) Spent lead-acid
                                                                                          batteries may be managed
                                                                                          according with
                                                                                          requirements of either:
                                                                                         (a) Universal Waste Rule
                                                                                          (40 CFR Part 273); or
                                                                                         (b) Special requirements in
                                                                                          40 CFR 266 Subpart G.
    
    [[Page 71227]]
    
     
    5-13-96.................  Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management     (1) Requires that the
                               Act (PL 104-142) Section 104(a), to be codified in a       collection, storage, and
                               future EPA action, but directly enforceable as a matter    transportation of the
                               of law on the date of passage.                             following types of
                                                                                          batteries be regulated
                                                                                          under the May 11, 1995
                                                                                          Universal Waste Rule:
                                                                                         (a) Used rechargeable
                                                                                          batteries
                                                                                         (b) Certain lead-acid
                                                                                          batteries not managed
                                                                                          under 40 CFR 266 Subpart G
                                                                                         (c) Rechargeable alkaline
                                                                                          batteries
                                                                                         (d) Certain mercury-
                                                                                          containing batteries
                                                                                          banned for domestic sale
                                                                                         (e) Used consumer products
                                                                                          containing rechargeable
                                                                                          batteries that aren't
                                                                                          easily removable.
                              Section 104(a)(2) of the Mercury-Containing and            (2) Stipulates that section
                               Rechargeable Battery Management Act.                       104(a) does not apply to
                                                                                          any lead-acid battery that
                                                                                          is managed in accordance
                                                                                          with requirements in 40
                                                                                          CFR 266 Subpart G or
                                                                                          equivalent requirements in
                                                                                          an approved state program.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    7. Why Are There Two Options for Managing Lead-Acid Batteries?
    
        EPA included lead-acid batteries in the Universal Waste Rule as a 
    convenience to generators and handlers that accumulate different types 
    of spent hazardous waste batteries. In some cases, it may be easier to 
    manage all spent batteries in the same way under the Universal Waste 
    Rule, rather than separating out the lead-acid batteries for handling 
    under 40 CFR Part 266. EPA retained the requirements for lead-acid 
    batteries in 40 CFR 266.80 because they have resulted in a very 
    successful recycling program for automotive batteries. Ninety percent 
    of all used automotive lead-acid batteries are recycled.
    
    8. Is Lead-Acid Battery Regeneration A Type of Reclamation? If Yes, 
    Why Did EPA Decide to Regulate It Differently From Other Lead-Acid 
    Battery Reclamation?
    
        Yes, regeneration is a type of reclamation that EPA has authority 
    to regulate. However, in 1985 EPA chose to exempt it from regulation 
    because battery regeneration posed low environmental risks and 
    resembled recycling activities that EPA did not regulate. (See 48 FR at 
    14496; 50 FR at 649.) Exempt ``regeneration'' includes only replacing 
    drained electrolyte fluids and replacing ``bad'' battery cells. (See 48 
    FR at 14496.)
        EPA felt that the recycling of lead-acid batteries to recover lead 
    posed different environmental risks. (See 48 FR at 14496, note 50.) The 
    lead recovery process involves cracking battery casings and smelting 
    the lead plates. EPA chose to regulate storage by battery reclaimers 
    prior to this type of reclamation. EPA also noted that wastes from the 
    reclamation process would continue to be regulated. (See 48 FR at 
    14496.) EPA chose not to regulate storage by other persons and chose 
    not to regulate transportation, finding that a number of factors made 
    regulation unnecessary. (See 48 FR 14498-99.) Today's clarification of 
    the lead-acid battery rules does not change any requirements and does 
    not provide new opportunity under section 7006 of RCRA to challenge the 
    earlier actions that put the rules in place.
    
    9. How Does Today's Technical Correction Clarify Requirements for 
    Handling Spent Lead-Acid Batteries That Will Be Regenerated?
    
        As currently drafted, 40 CFR 266.80(a), reads: ``Persons who 
    generate, transport, or collect spent batteries, who regenerate spent 
    batteries, or who store spent batteries but do not reclaim them (other 
    than spent batteries that are to be regenerated) are not subject to 
    regulation under parts 262 through 266 or part 270 or 124 of this 
    chapter * * *''. We are concerned that the meaning of the phrase within 
    the parentheses isn't clear. Today's technical correction changes 40 
    CFR 266.80(a) by replacing it with a table that more fully explains 
    when lead-acid batteries are exempt from hazardous waste management 
    requirements. The table reflects EPA's original intent (as expressed in 
    the Universal Waste Rule published on May 11, 1995) for the amendment 
    made to 40 CFR 266.80.
    
    10. How Does Today's Technical Correction Affect Management 
    Requirements for Storing Lead-Acid Batteries Before Reclaiming 
    Them?
    
        Today's action does not change any management requirements for 
    storage of lead-acid batteries. When EPA amended 40 CFR 266.80 in the 
    final Universal Waste Rule, the management requirements for storing 
    spent lead-acid batteries before reclamation were mistakenly deleted. 
    (Compare 40 CFR 266.80(b)(1)-(4)(1994 edition) with Sec. 266.80(b) at 
    60 FR 25542.) Today's technical correction restores to 40 CFR 266.80(b) 
    the deleted storage requirements for spent lead-acid batteries when the 
    batteries aren't regenerated. In addition, for the sake of clarity, the 
    restored requirements have been reorganized by separating the 
    requirements for interim status facilities and permitted facilities. 
    Further, the restored requirements have been reorganized so that they 
    are presented in a more readable format. Although the requirements have 
    been separated and reformatted, they are substantively the same as 
    those mistakenly deleted. In other words, there are no new requirements 
    as a result of these modifications.
        Specifically, the restored provisions list the applicable 
    requirements for interim status facilities, which include: (1) 
    Notification requirements under section 3010 of RCRA; (2) All 
    applicable provisions in subpart A of 40 CFR part 265; (3) All 
    applicable provisions in subpart B of 40 CFR part 265 (but not 
    Sec. 265.13, dealing with waste analysis); (4) All applicable 
    provisions in subparts C and D of 40 CFR part 265; (5) All applicable 
    provisions in subpart E of 40 CFR part 265 (but not Secs. 265.71 and 
    265.72, dealing with the use of the manifest and manifest 
    discrepancies); (6) All applicable provisions in subparts F through L 
    of 40 CFR part 265 of this chapter; and (7) All applicable provisions 
    in 40 CFR parts 270 and 124.
        Likewise, the restored provisions list the applicable requirements 
    for permitted facilities which include: (1) Notification requirements 
    under section 3010 of RCRA; (2) All applicable provisions in subpart A 
    of 40 CFR part 264; (3) All applicable provisions in subpart B of 40 
    CFR part 264 (but not Sec. 264.13, dealing with waste analysis); (4) 
    All applicable provisions in subparts C and D of 40 CFR part 264; (5) 
    All applicable provisions in subpart E of 40 CFR part 264 (but not 
    Sec. 264.71 or Sec. 264.72, dealing with the use of the manifest and 
    manifest discrepancies); (6) All applicable provisions in subparts F 
    through L of 40 CFR part 264; and (7) All applicable provisions in 40 
    CFR parts 270 and 124. Again, EPA takes the position that this 
    clarification of existing provisions does not provide new opportunity 
    to challenge them.
    
    [[Page 71228]]
    
    11. How Does Today's Technical Correction Change the Definition of 
    ``Small Quantity Handler of Universal Waste?''
    
        Today's technical correction changes the current definition of 
    ``small quantity handler of universal waste'' by making it consistent 
    with the definition in the preamble to the May 11, 1995 Universal Waste 
    Final rule. The correction clearly distinguishes the difference between 
    a small quantity handler of universal waste and a large quantity 
    handler of universal waste. Without today's technical correction, there 
    is the potential for confusion when distinguishing small quantity 
    handlers from large quantity handlers since the current regulatory 
    definitions are not mutually exclusive.
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Current definition of small      Newly corrected definition of small
    quantity handler of universal waste  quantity handler of universal waste
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
     ``A small quantity handler of       ``A small quantity handler of
     universal waste means a universal    universal waste means a universal
     waste handler (as defined in this    waste handler (as defined in this
     section) who does not accumulate     section) who does not accumulate
     more than 5000 kilograms total of    5000 kilograms or more total of
     universal waste* * *.                universal waste* * *.
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    12. How Is EPA Correcting Requirements Related to Exports of 
    Universal Wastes?
    
        The discussion of destination facility requirements in the preamble 
    to the final Universal Waste Rule (60 FR 25533-34) states that the 
    export requirements for destination facilities are included in the 
    final rule as ``subpart E, Sec. 273.63.'' This citation is incorrect; 
    Sec. 273.63 does not exist. A destination facility that sends universal 
    waste to a foreign destination (i.e., outside the United States) is 
    subject to either:
    
        (a) Section Sec. 273.20 or Sec. 273.40 depending on their 
    universal waste handler classification, or (b) Section Sec. 273.56 
    if the destination facility actually transports universal waste to a 
    foreign destination.
    
        In addition, on page 25534 of the preamble to the final universal 
    waste rule, there is a parenthetical statement at the end of the first 
    paragraph referring the reader to section III.F.10 of the preamble for 
    a discussion of issues related to exports of universal waste. The 
    citation is incorrect. The discussion of issues related to exports of 
    universal waste is in section IV.E.10 of the preamble to the final 
    rule. Since the errors mentioned above were made in the preamble of the 
    Universal Waste Rule, the export requirements for universal wastes are 
    unaffected by today's rule.
    
    13. Why Isn't EPA Proposing These Changes for Public Comment and 
    Establishing an Effective Date Later Than the Promulgation Date?
    
        Today's technical correction creates no new regulatory 
    requirements. It reinstates regulatory language that was mistakenly 
    changed in a previous EPA rule, and clarifies existing regulatory 
    requirements. For these reasons, EPA finds that good cause exists under 
    5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B) to issue these corrections as a final rule 
    without notice and opportunity for comment. For the same reasons, EPA 
    finds that there is good cause under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3) and 42 U.S.C. 
    6930(b)(3) (section 3010(b)(3) of RCRA) to make this regulation 
    immediately effective upon promulgation.
    
    14. Does This Technical Correction Meet Conditions Described in the 
    Executive Order 12866, the Regulatory Flexibility Act, the Unfunded 
    Mandates Reform Act of 1995, the Paperwork Reduction Act, the 
    National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995, and 
    Executive Orders 13045, 12875, and 13084?
    
    Executive Order 12866: Regulatory Planning and Review
    
        Under Executive Order 12866, (58 FR 51.735 (October 4, 1993)) the 
    Agency must determine whether the regulatory action is ``significant'' 
    and therefore subject to OMB review and the requirements of the 
    Executive Order. The Order defines ``significant regulatory action'' as 
    one that is likely to result in a rule that may:
        (1) Have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more or 
    adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the 
    economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, public 
    health or safety, or State, local, or tribal governments or 
    communities;
        (2) Create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an 
    action taken or planned by another agency;
        (3) Materially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, 
    user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients 
    thereof; or
        (4) Raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal 
    mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth in 
    the Executive Order.''
        It has been determined that this rule is not a ``significant 
    regulatory action'' under the terms of Executive Order 12866 and is 
    therefore not subject to OMB review.''
    
    Regulatory Flexibility Act
    
        The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), as amended by the Small 
    Business Enforcement and Fairness Act, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, generally 
    requires an agency to conduct a regulatory flexibility analysis of any 
    rule subject to notice and comment rulemaking requirements unless the 
    agency certifies that the rule will not have a significant economic 
    impact on a substantial number of small entities. EPA has determined 
    that today's rule will not have a significant economic impact on a 
    substantial number of small entities. The rule does not impose any 
    additional burdens on small entities because it does not create any new 
    regulatory requirements. Therefore, EPA has determined that it is 
    appropriate to certify that this rule will not have a significant 
    economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    
    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    
        Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), Public 
    Law 104-4, establishes requirements for Federal agencies to assess the 
    effects of their regulatory actions on State, local, and tribal 
    governments and the private sector. For the reason described above, 
    that the rule does not create any new requirements, it does not contain 
    a Federal mandate that may result in annual expenditures of $100 
    million or more for State, local, and tribal governments, in the 
    aggregate, or for the private sector. The rule likewise contains no 
    regulatory requirements that might significantly or uniquely affect 
    small governments under section 203 of the UMRA and imposes no burdens 
    that may result in annual expenditures of $100 million or more. 
    Accordingly, the requirements of UMRA do not apply.
    
    Paperwork Reduction Act
    
        Since this action is not subject to notice-and-comment requirements 
    under the Administrative Procedure Act or any other statute, it does 
    not affect requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act.
    
    [[Page 71229]]
    
    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995
    
        Section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement 
    Act of 1995 (NTTAA), Pub L. 104-113, section 12(d) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) 
    directs EPA to use voluntary consensus standards in its regulatory 
    activities unless to do so would be inconsistent with applicable law or 
    otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical 
    standards (e.g., materials specifications, test methods, sampling 
    procedures, and business practices) that are developed or adopted by 
    voluntary consensus standards bodies.
        The NTTAA directs EPA to provide Congress, through OMB, 
    explanations when the Agency decides not to use available and 
    applicable voluntary consensus standards. This technical correction 
    action does not involve technical standards. Therefore, EPA did not 
    consider the use of any voluntary standards in this rulemaking.
    
    Executive Order 13045: Protection of Children From Environmental Health 
    Risks and Safety Risks
    
        This technical correction is not subject to E.O. 13045, entitled 
    ``Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety 
    Risks'' (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997), because this action is not an 
    economically significant rule, and it does not involve decisions on 
    environmental health risks or safety risks that may disproportionately 
    affect children.
    
    Executive Order 12875: Enhancing Intergovernmental Partnerships
    
        Under Executive Order 12875, EPA may not issue a regulation that is 
    not required by statute and that creates a mandate upon a State, local 
    or tribal government, unless the Federal government provides the funds 
    necessary to pay the direct compliance costs incurred by those 
    governments. If the mandate is unfunded, EPA must provide to the Office 
    of Management and Budget a description of the extent of EPA's prior 
    consultation with representatives of affected State, local and tribal 
    governments, the nature of their concerns, copies of any written 
    communications from the governments, and a statement supporting the 
    need to issue the regulation. In addition, Executive Order 12875 
    requires EPA to develop an effective process permitting elected 
    officials and other representatives of State, local and tribal 
    governments ``to provide meaningful and timely input in the development 
    of regulatory proposals containing significant unfunded mandates.''
        Today's technical correction does not create a mandate on State, 
    local or tribal governments. The rule does not impose any enforceable 
    duties on these entities. Today's rule corrects errors to existing 
    regulations governing management of spent lead-acid batteries that are 
    reclaimed and corrects the definition of small quantity universal waste 
    handlers. Accordingly, the requirements of section 1(a) of Executive 
    Order 12875 do not apply to this rule.
    
    Executive Order 13084: Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal 
    Governments
    
        Under Executive Order 13084, EPA may not issue a regulation that is 
    not required by statute, that significantly or uniquely affects the 
    communities of Indian tribal governments, and that imposes substantial 
    direct compliance costs on those communities, unless the Federal 
    government provides the funds necessary to pay the direct compliance 
    costs incurred by the tribal governments. If the mandate is unfunded, 
    EPA must provide to the Office of Management and Budget, in a 
    separately identified section of the preamble to the rule, a 
    description of the extent of EPA's prior consultation with 
    representatives of affected tribal governments, a summary of the nature 
    of their concerns, and a statement supporting the need to issue the 
    regulation. In addition, Executive Order 13084 requires EPA to develop 
    an effective process permitting elected and other representatives of 
    Indian tribal governments ``to provide meaningful and timely input in 
    the development of regulatory policies on matters that significantly or 
    uniquely affect their communities.''
        Today's technical correction does not significantly or uniquely 
    affect the communities of Indian tribal governments. Today's rule 
    corrects errors to existing regulations governing management of spent 
    lead-acid batteries that are reclaimed and corrects the definition of 
    small quantity universal waste handlers. Accordingly, the requirements 
    of section 3(b) of Executive Order 13084 do not apply to this rule.
    
    15. Has EPA Submitted This Rule to Congress and the General 
    Accounting Office?
    
        Under 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A) as added by the Small Business 
    Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, EPA submitted a report 
    containing this rule and other required information to the U.S. Senate, 
    the U.S. House of Representatives and the Comptroller General of the 
    General Accounting Office prior to publication in today's Federal 
    Register. This rule is not a ``major rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 
    804(2) as amended.
    
    List of Subjects
    
    40 CFR Part 266
    
        Environmental protection, Energy, Hazardous waste, Petroleum, 
    Recycling, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    
    40 CFR Part 273
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste.
    
        Dated: December 8, 1998.
    Timothy Fields, Jr.,
    Acting Assistant Administrator, Office of Solid Waste and Emergency 
    Response.
    
        40 CFR parts 266 and 273 is amended as follows:
    
    PART 266--STANDARDS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF SPECIFIC HAZARDOUS WASTES 
    AND SPECIFIC TYPES OF HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITIES
    
        1. The authority citation for part 266 continues to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 42 U.S.C. 1006, 2002(a), 3004, and 3014, 6905, 6906, 
    6912, 6922, 6923, 6924, 6925, and 6937.
    
    Subpart G--Spent Lead-Acid Batteries Being Reclaimed
    
        2. Section 266.80 is revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 266.80  Applicability and requirements.
    
        (a) Are spent lead-acid batteries exempt from hazardous waste 
    management requirements? If you generate, collect, transport, store, or 
    regenerate lead-acid batteries for reclamation purposes, you may be 
    exempt from certain hazardous waste management requirements. Use the 
    following table to determine which requirements apply to you. 
    Alternatively, you may choose to manage your spent lead-acid batteries 
    under the ``Universal Waste'' rule in 40 CFR part 273.
    
    [[Page 71230]]
    
    
    
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          If your batteries * * *         And if you * * *             Then you * * *              And you * * *
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (1) Will be reclaimed through                             are exempt from 40 CFR Parts     are subject to 40 CFR
     regeneration (such as by                                  262 (except for Sec.  262.11)    Parts 261 and 262.11
     electrolyte replacement).                                 263, 264, 265, 266, 268, 270,    of this chapter.
                                                               124 of this chapter, and the
                                                               notification requirements at
                                                               section 3010 of RCRA.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (2) Will be reclaimed other than    generate, collect,    are exempt from 40 CFR Parts     are subject to 40 CFR
     through regeneration.               and/or transport      262 (except for Sec.  262.11)    Parts 261 and
                                         these batteries.      263, 264, 265, 266, 270, 124     262.11, and
                                                               of this chapter, and the         applicable
                                                               notification requirements at     provisions under
                                                               section 3010 of RCRA.            Part 268.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (3) Will be reclaimed other than    store these           are exempt from 40 CFR Parts     are subject to 40 CFR
     through regeneration.               batteries but you     262 (except for Sec.  262.11)    Parts 261, 262.11,
                                         aren't the            263, 264, 265, 266, 270, 124     and applicable
                                         reclaimer.            of this chapter, and the         provisions under
                                                               notification requirements at     Part 268.
                                                               section 3010 of RCRA.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (4) Will be reclaimed other than    store these           must comply with 40 CFR          are subject to 40 CFR
     through regeneration.               batteries before      266.80(b) and as appropriate     Parts 261, 262.11,
                                         you reclaim them.     other regulatory provisions      and applicable
                                                               described in 266.80(b).          provisions under
                                                                                                Part 268.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (5) Will be reclaimed other than    don't store these     are exempt from 40 CFR Parts     are subject to 40 CFR
     through regeneration.               batteries before      262 (except for Sec.  262.11)    Parts 261, 262.11,
                                         you reclaim them.     263, 264, 265, 266, 270, 124     and applicable
                                                               of this chapter, and the         provisions under
                                                               notification requirements at     Part 268.
                                                               section 3010 of RCRA.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        (b) If I store spent lead-acid batteries before I reclaim them but 
    not through regeneration, which requirements apply? The requirements of 
    paragraph (b) of this section apply to you if you store spent lead-acid 
    batteries before you reclaim them, but you don't reclaim them through 
    regeneration. The requirements are slightly different depending on your 
    RCRA permit status.
        (1) For Interim Status Facilities, you must comply with:
        (i) Notification requirements under section 3010 of RCRA.
        (ii) All applicable provisions in subpart A of part 265 of this 
    chapter.
        (iii) All applicable provisions in subpart B of part 265 of this 
    chapter except Sec. 265.13 (waste analysis).
        (iv) All applicable provisions in subparts C and D of part 265 of 
    this chapter.
        (v) All applicable provisions in subpart E of part 265 of this 
    chapter except Secs. 265.71 and 265.72 (dealing with the use of the 
    manifest and manifest discrepancies).
        (vi) All applicable provisions in subparts F through L of part 265 
    of this chapter.
        (vii) All applicable provisions in parts 270 and 124 of this 
    chapter.
        (2) For Permitted Facilities.
        (i) Notification requirements under section 3010 of RCRA.
        (ii) All applicable provisions in subpart A of part 264 of this 
    chapter.
        (iii) All applicable provisions in subpart B of part 264 of this 
    chapter (but not Sec. 264.13 (waste analysis).
        (iv) All applicable provisions in subparts C and D of part 264 of 
    this chapter.
        (v) All applicable provisions in subpart E of part 264 of this 
    chapter (but not Sec. 264.71 or Sec. 264.72 (dealing with the use of 
    the manifest and manifest discrepancies).
        (vi) All applicable provisions in subparts F through L of part 264 
    of this chapter.
        (vii) All applicable provisions in parts 270 and 124 of this 
    chapter.
    
    PART 273--STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT
    
        3. The authority citation for part 273 continues to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6922, 6923, 6924, 6925, 6930, and 6937.
    
        4. Section 273.6 is amended by revising the definition of ``Small 
    Quantity Handler of Universal Waste'' to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 273.6  Definitions.
    
    * * * * *
        Small Quantity Handler of Universal Waste means a universal waste 
    handler (as defined in this section) who does not accumulate 5,000 
    kilograms or more total of universal waste (batteries, pesticides, or 
    thermostats, calculated collectively) at any time.
    * * * * *
    [FR Doc. 98-34044 Filed 12-23-98; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 6560-50-U
    
    
    

Document Information

Effective Date:
12/24/1998
Published:
12/24/1998
Department:
Environmental Protection Agency
Entry Type:
Rule
Action:
Final rule; correcting amendments.
Document Number:
98-34044
Dates:
December 24, 1998.
Pages:
71225-71230 (6 pages)
Docket Numbers:
FRL-6207-7
RINs:
2050-AD19
PDF File:
98-34044.pdf
CFR: (2)
40 CFR 266.80
40 CFR 273.6