Ohio is now taking the lead on hazardous waste permitting across the state, following a new authorization from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that shifts primary oversight from federal regulators to state officials.

The announcement, made April 2 in Zanesville, gives the Ohio EPA full authority to issue and manage permits under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal law governing hazardous waste handling and disposal. The move is being framed by officials as a step toward what’s often called “cooperative federalism”—a model where states implement federal standards with more direct control.

Under the new arrangement, Ohio will oversee all aspects of hazardous waste permitting, a responsibility previously shared with or led by the federal government. Supporters say the change could make the process more efficient and predictable for businesses, while still maintaining environmental protections.

State and federal officials emphasized that the shift doesn’t lower standards. To receive this authority, Ohio had to demonstrate that its program meets or exceeds federal requirements. EPA will continue to play an oversight role, including reviewing any future updates to the state’s program to ensure consistency with national regulations.

The transition also includes the incorporation of additional rules into Ohio’s program, covering areas such as organic air emissions, updated definitions of solid waste, and regulations for aerosol cans. Federal and state agencies are coordinating to move existing permits under EPA jurisdiction into the state system.

Backers of the change argue that placing permitting authority closer to the state level allows for faster decision-making and a better understanding of local conditions. Industry groups, in particular, say the move could reduce delays and provide more certainty for companies planning investments or expansions.

At the same time, the structure keeps a federal backstop in place. Any future changes to hazardous waste regulations at the national level will still need to be adopted by Ohio, and EPA retains the authority to approve or reject those updates.

The shift reflects a broader trend in environmental policy, where states are given more responsibility to implement federal programs—so long as they maintain baseline protections. In Ohio’s case, officials say the goal is to balance efficiency with accountability as the state takes on a larger role in managing hazardous waste.