EPA is promulgating changes modifying the pretreatment standards for existing and new sources applicable to certain facilities in the leather tanning and finishing point source category that conduct unhairing operations and that discharge process wastewater to publicly owned treatment works (``POTW''). This rule responds to a petition submitted by the leather tanning industry. The Agency conducted an informal survey of a small number of POTWs, permitting authorities, and industry representatives knowledgeable of leather processing operations and wastewater treatment. EPA is promulgating these changes as a ``direct'' final rule because the Agency does not expect significant adverse or critical comments. EPA also wants to provide prompt implementation of the rule to minimize any potential hazards to worker safety and health that may occur in the absence of this rule. Prompt implementation will also allow affected facilities in this category to reduce the use of treatment chemicals.