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EPA Introduces First National Drinking Water Standards for PFAS

The new regulations aim to significantly reduce 'forever chemicals' in U.S. drinking water, impacting public health and utility operations.

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Hundreds of people turned out in protest as Chemours held a public meeting at the Leland Cultural Arts Center Wednesday Sept. 21, 2022 in Leland, N.C. Chemours is expanding its operation at its Fayetteville Works site and is talking to the public about their plans for the future. KEN BLEVINS/STARNEWS
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Overview

  • The EPA's new standards target per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), setting enforceable limits to protect against their toxic effects.
  • By 2029, U.S. public water systems must fully implement PFAS reduction solutions or face public notification of violations.
  • Home water filters are recommended as immediate measures, with guidance on selecting certified products that effectively reduce PFAS levels.
  • The implementation of these standards poses financial challenges for utilities, especially in states like North Carolina, where many systems exceed new PFAS limits.
  • Legal and financial frameworks are evolving, with billions in federal funding earmarked for PFAS testing and infrastructure upgrades.