EPA Designates Two 'Forever Chemicals' as Hazardous, Enabling Stricter Cleanup Enforcement

The new rule holds manufacturers accountable for cleanup costs, shifting the financial burden away from taxpayers.

The EPA's recent designation of PFOS and PFOA as hazardous substances under the Superfund law mandates that polluters are financially responsible for cleaning up contamination.
This move follows a broader effort to address the pervasive threat of PFAS, including setting stringent drinking water limits last week.
Affected industries and local governments express concerns about the potential for increased litigation and financial burdens due to the new regulations.
Recent settlements, including a $10.3 billion agreement by 3M, highlight the significant financial implications for companies responsible for PFAS contamination.
The designation does not apply to biosolids used in agriculture, which remains a contentious issue as PFAS contamination continues to affect farmland.