The EPA’s PCE rule remains one of the most significant long-term regulatory issues facing the dry-cleaning industry.
PCE, also known as perc or perchloroethylene, has long been used in dry cleaning. In December 2024, EPA issued a final rule regulating PCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
In March 2026, EPA proposed extending certain compliance dates related to parts of the Workplace Chemical Protection Program.
The proposed extended dates are:
- Initial monitoring: June 21, 2027
- Meet the ECEL, establish a regulated area, provide required respiratory PPE, and establish a respiratory PPE program: September 20, 2027
- Establish and implement an exposure control plan: December 20, 2027
Important Clarification for Cleaners
EPA states that the current deadlines remain effective until they are officially changed through the rulemaking process.
That means cleaners should not assume the extension is final until EPA formally completes the process.
For many cleaners, the challenge is not just understanding the dates. The larger issue is understanding how the rule affects equipment planning, future investment decisions, compliance procedures, and long-term operational strategy.
EPA also states that the proposed timeline adjustment does not change the agency’s underlying determination that PCE presents unreasonable risk. The agency says it is working to revise portions of the rule so they are practical and implementable while still maintaining health and environmental protections.
The Larger Industry Issue
For dry cleaners, the larger issue has not gone away.
EPA’s PCE rule still includes a long-term phaseout of PCE use in dry cleaning. EPA describes this as a 10-year phaseout. The rule also restricts the use of PCE in newly acquired dry-cleaning machines after the applicable deadline.
This means cleaners should continue paying attention to:
- Equipment planning
- Compliance documentation
- Future operational costs
- Alternative cleaning technologies
- Long-term business strategy
What Members Should Do Now
Dry cleaners should:
- Identify whether their plant still uses PCE
- Know what type of machine they operate
- Review EPA’s dry-cleaning compliance materials
- Keep records organized
- Speak with equipment providers, suppliers, or compliance advisors
- Continue monitoring EPA updates carefully before making assumptions about future deadlines
This is not a reason to panic.
It is a reason to begin planning before decisions become urgent.
The cleaners who will be in the strongest position are the ones who understand their equipment, know their obligations, and prepare before deadlines become operational emergencies.
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