Government Affairs Update: NFFS Tracks Regulatory and Legislative Issues Impacting Foundries

The NFFS Government Affairs Committee (GAC) continues to monitor and analyze key federal policy developments on behalf of NFFS member foundries. Below is a summary of topics the committee has been actively tracking, including emerging regulatory actions and legislative proposals with potential impacts on the non-ferrous foundry industry.

Engaging with EPA on 6Z MACT ICR

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued an Information Collection Request (ICR) related to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Area Source Nonferrous Foundries—commonly referred to as the 6Z MACT rule. NFFS is currently engaging with the EPA regarding this ICR, which seeks input on the labor, cost, and compliance burden associated with the rule. The Society is working to ensure that the agency’s estimates accurately reflect the realities faced by foundries and to advocate for streamlined reporting where duplicative requirements exist.

New OSHA Leadership Nomination

President Trump has nominated David Keeling to serve as Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA. Keeling brings extensive experience in workplace safety from his time at UPS and Amazon and is expected to prioritize practical, results-driven safety programs. If confirmed, his leadership may bring changes to OSHA’s regulatory agenda, including potential revisions or withdrawal of the proposed Heat Injury and Illness rule, a rule NFFS has previously submitted comments on.

EPA Rescinds “Once In, Always In” Rule

The EPA has finalized its rescission of the “Once In, Always In” (OIAI) policy, a longstanding rule that prevented facilities from reclassifying as area sources even after reducing emissions below major source thresholds. This change, long supported by NFFS, gives foundries greater flexibility and lowers compliance burdens for facilities that proactively cut emissions.

Federal Tax Reform Gains Momentum

With provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025, Congress has introduced comprehensive reform bills aimed at making key tax provisions permanent. NFFS joined a national sign-on letter urging swift passage of H.R. 1, which includes a permanent 199A pass-through deduction, restoration of full R&D and capital expensing, and a more favorable standard for interest deductibility. These reforms are critical to supporting investment and growth in U.S. manufacturing.

Ongoing Policy Tracking

NFFS continues to monitor the following issues:

• OSHA Heat Injury and Illness Proposed Rule (December 2024)

• OSHA Blood Lead Level Medical Removal ANPRM (October 2022)

NFFS thanks the members of the Government Affairs Committee for their ongoing commitment to monitoring and responding to regulatory and legislative activity on behalf of the industry.

Committee Members:
Chris Greenfield (Chair), Gerry Byrne, Tom Corpora, Chris Dankert, Cathy Dolan, John Hambleton, Iain Jenkins, Nate McLain, Ron Reeves, Andy Renkey, Jason Seeley, Jerry Smith, Karen Strelitz, Seth Warfield.

Next Committee Meeting: Wednesday, July 30, 2025 – 3:00 PM EDT