Retail Regulatory Updates | August 2025
Dive into regulations reshaping the retail industry, and discover how you can turn compliance into a competitive advantage.
This Week's Contributor
Spotlighting Retail Regulatory Shifts
Ongoing regulatory changes continue to impact retail businesses. Staying informed is essential for ensuring compliance, risk mitigation, and maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic marketplace. APTIM provides expert guidance to help businesses navigate evolving regulations and develop tailored compliance strategies to remain ahead of emerging requirements.
Navigating the latest regulations doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right support, you can stay compliant, reduce risk, and keep your business moving forward. Whether you need support understanding emerging legislation or developing a proactive compliance plan, APTIM is here to help.
Energy
- Oregon (OR H.B.3546) Distribution centers using 20+ megawatts may be reclassified under a new utility tariff. They may be required to enter custom contracts with electric companies and bear direct costs of service.
Enacted: 07/07/25
Compliance: 06/16/25
Hazardous Waste/Universal Waste
- Wisconsin: (WI CR 24-036) Retailers and distribution centers generating aerosol cans may now manage them as universal waste under NR 673 instead of hazardous waste under NR 661. Cans must be kept in sealed, compatible containers protected from heat. Containers must be labeled as “Universal Waste – Aerosol Cans,” “Used Aerosol Cans,” or “Waste Aerosol Cans.” Accumulation time is up to one year, with documentation verifying storage duration. Leaking/damaged cans must be overpacked or punctured and drained using commercial devices, with hazardous waste determination for contents (cannot be managed as universal). Handlers exceeding 5,000 kg of universal waste must notify WDNR using EPA Form 8700-12.
Enacted: 04/07/25
Compliance: 01/01/25 - NH RSA 149-M:27 (II) Retailers must not dispose of lithium-ion batteries or electronics in landfills or incinerators. Retailers should provide educational materials and recycling opportunities for battery-containing products.
Enacted: 07/01/25
Compliance: 01/01/26
OSHA & Worker Safety
- Michigan – (MI R 408.40601 – R 408.40660): Retailers with construction operations must provide PPE for head, face, eyes, hands, feet, and body. Employers must ensure PPE is sanitary, reliable, and properly fitted. Includes compliance with federal OSHA standards and fall protection for work above 6 feet.
Enacted: 08/12/25
Compliance: 08/12/25
Solid Waste & Recycling
- Colorado – (CO SB25-163) Retailers must not sell batteries from non-compliant producers starting July 1, 2029. Labeling requirements begin January 1, 2028. Point-of-sale fees to cover program costs are prohibited. Retailers must verify producer participation in stewardship programs.
Enacted: 06/04/25
Compliance: 07/01/27 - Washington (WA SB 5284) Retailers may only sell battery-containing products if the producer is part of an approved stewardship plan. Distribution centers must ensure products meet stewardship compliance before shipment.
Enacted: 05/17/25
Compliance: 01/01/27 - New Hampshire (NH H.B.416 / RSA 485-A:15) Retailers and distribution centers must not dispose of yard waste (e.g., leaves, grass clippings, branches) into surface waters such as lakes, rivers, streams, or ponds. This includes disposal on ice or banks adjacent to surface waters and applies to solid waste and hazardous waste, including yard waste, scrap, and litter. Enforcement authority includes peace officers and agents of the Department of Environmental Services. Violators may be ordered to immediately remove the waste. If they fail to comply, the state may remove it and recover costs through legal action. Retailers must ensure staff training and waste handling protocols prevent illegal disposal near water bodies.
Enacted: 07/15/25
Compliance: 01/01/26
Drinking Water
- Colorado (CO 5 CCR 1002-11) Retail water systems must take immediate corrective actions during backflow contamination events. Retailers selling water treatment or plumbing services may need to update protocols and training.
Enacted: 08/11/25
Compliance: Same as enacted
Contact RegulatoryReview@APTIM.com to learn how our team of experts can guide your business through existing requirements and prepare you for what’s next.
Published August 2025
APTIM. In Pursuit of Better.
Connect with APTIM
Subscribe to the APTIM Xchange Newsletter
APTIM's newsletter, The APTIM Xchange, provides industry news flashes, regulatory updates, service spotlights, and topical columns from our subject matter experts.