What will the EPA’s new regulations for “forever chemicals” in drinking water mean for Pennsylvania?

Last month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced federal standards for "forever chemicals" in drinking water, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are associated with health issues such as cancer and reproductive problems. With almost 15,000 variants, they contaminate products like carpets and cookware, persisting in nature and affecting over 5,000 water sites nationwide.

Effective from June 25, the new regulations set limits for six common PFAS, including PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, PFBS, and GenX. Despite calls for collective regulation, any reduction in exposure benefits due to their cumulative health impact.

The EPA's new PFAS limits, notably 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, and 10 ppt for GenX, PFNA, and PFHxS, aim to safeguard public health. Additionally, the regulations introduce a "hazard index" to assess combined chemical risks and establish "Maximum Contaminant Level Goals" for remediation guidance. The Biden administration expects these measures to protect millions from PFAS exposure, preventing numerous illnesses and fatalities. Moreover, PFOA and PFOS are now classified as "hazardous substances," empowering the EPA to address contamination and hold polluters accountable.