EPA Scales Back Restrictions on Drinking Water

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced they are changing a key regulation. One that limits harmful PFAS compounds. These are often referred to as “forever chemicals” in the nation’s drinking water. The changes could impact the quality of your drinking water very soon.

Scientific and Public Health Background

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a wide range of consumer products. It's also in industrial processes and found in nonstick cookware. Nicknamed “forever chemicals”, once in the human body these are hard to remove.

Long-term exposure to PFAS is a risk. It's linked to cancer, liver and kidney damage among many other things. This is according to research cited by the EPA themselves as well as public health agencies.

Revisions to the Original PFAS Rule

The EPA had proposed strict max contaminant levels for substances known as PFAS. Or what we call “forever chemicals” found in tap water. The substances are: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX. The rule was set in 2023 to make public water systems to comply by 2029.

Under the updated proposal, the EPA plans to keep limits only for PFOA and PFOS. Those are the two most hazardous compounds. They dropped proposed limits for PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS and GenX. The timeline for compliance is also extended two years to 2031.

Concerns From Public Health Advocates

The agency says that it remains committed to reducing PFAS exposure. Environmental and health advocates have expressed concern. Many of them citing the smaller scope of regulation.

They also argue it could be a risk to public health. They say removing 4 of 6 PFAS chemicals is dangerous. Especially for populations who rely on already contaminated water systems.

Next Steps and Public Input

The EPA plans to open the new rule for public comment in the coming weeks. 

The agency has not specified what new policy considerations prompted the rollback. Internal communications suggest a review of data shaped the decision. There's also been reports of a cost-benefit analyses for the lesser-known PFAS compounds.

The EPA maintains that regulating PFOA and PFOS remains its highest priority.

Implications for Communities Nationwide

Communities across the U.S. are watching developments. Especially those with at-risk water systems. Including areas in Michigan, North Carolina and New Hampshire. 

Water utilities in these regions may see reduced regulations under the revised rule. But they could still face challenges in community trust and long-term health safeguards.

For more details, visit the EPA’s official website.