On November 17, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced a proposed rule that would clarify the definition of “waters of the United States”—commonly known as WOTUS—and fully implement the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. The proposed rule will be open for a public comment period with comments due on January 5, 2026.
IEC has long-supported WOTUS reforms in the face of litigation and changing regulations and is likely to provide comments illustrating how WOTUS has delayed and obstructed commercial, industrial, residential, and heavy infrastructure projects employing electrical contractors and employees.
IEC members are encouraged to share WOTUS-related concerns with IEC’s government affairs team and/or submit comments directly.