TCE Ban Update: EPA Delays Section 6(g) Requirements Until Feb 2026

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has once again announced a delay regarding a specific portion of the final rule banning trichloroethylene (TCE). On November 13, 2025, the EPA confirmed that the Section 6(g) exemption requirements will now take effect on February 17, 2026.

This delay does not change the main TCE phase-out timeline. Most commercial and industrial uses should have already been phased out as of September 15, 2025. The Section 6(g) exemption only applies to businesses that rely on TCE for specialized uses (usually government or military related) where extended time is necessary to find a viable alternative.

The Section 6(g) exemptions have been repeatedly delayed due to ongoing judicial processes. The EPA has now extended these requirements to February 2026 to keep the regulatory timeline aligned with the ongoing court review.

What Exactly Is Being Delayed?

Only the additional requirements for critical-use exemptions are affected. These exemptions apply to limited operations such as aviation, medical device manufacturing, and government operations.

This delay means that the exemption-related compliance requirements are not yet enforceable.

All other requirements in the TCE final rule remain unchanged.

How Walden Can Help

Walden assists companies with evaluating exemption eligibility, selecting safer alternatives, updating compliance documentation, and training employees. If your facility uses TCE and you need support navigating these changes, contact us today at 516-559-6976.