EPA backs Indiana takeover of coal-ash permitting; 60-day comment period opens Sept. 16, 2026
Federal EPA officials announced on Sept. 15, 2026 a proposed approval of Indiana’s coal combustion residuals (CCR) permit program; the proposed rule will be published in the Federal Register on Sept. 16, 2026, opening a 60-day public comment period. IDEM estimates about 100 CCR units would require permits and forecasts $1.3 million in personnel costs.
At an Indianapolis news conference on Sept. 15, 2026, U.S. EPA Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi announced the agency’s proposed approval of Indiana’s CCR permit program. The state submitted its CCR application in June; IDEM staff drafted regulations between 2021 and 2024, and the Indiana Environmental Rules Board gave final approval in late 2025. The EPA said the program, if finalized, would be the largest in the country.
The proposed state program includes requirements for design, operation, groundwater monitoring, closure, recordkeeping and financial assurance. IDEM estimates roughly 100 CCR units across Indiana would require permits. The proposed rule will be published in the Federal Register on Sept. 16, 2026, starting a 60-day public comment period; IDEM’s slides say the agency anticipates federal approval "as soon as February or March." IDEM estimates $1.3 million in personnel costs and says the program will be mostly funded by permit fees.
BusinessIndy examines this development and its implications for Indiana businesses and communities using the linked sources.
Related coverage
- Indiana board approves roughly $139M to reimburse local road funds; $46M distribution to counties, cities and towns set this week
- Zionsville approves $12.6M sewer contract with Indianapolis firm, shifting local infrastructure spending
- Braun extends 30-day gas tax pause through Oct. 6, pledges reserves to keep INDOT projects funded