EPA to Regulate Perchlorate in Water as Congress Blocks Pesticide Immunity Provision

The EPA plans to propose a drinking water limit for perchlorate, a chemical in rockets and explosives, following a court order. While dangerous to infants, the agency says regulation offers limited public health benefits due to rare contamination. Utilities would test water, with public input on limits of 20, 40, or 80 parts per billion. Perchlorate can affect thyroid function, potentially lowering children’s IQ and causing behavioral issues.

Separately, Congress removed a provision in a federal funding bill that would have shielded pesticide makers, including Bayer, from lawsuits over health risks. The language would have restricted federal support for labeling or guidance inconsistent with EPA assessments, limiting states’ ability to warn the public. Critics said it could have blocked consumer lawsuits.

Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree credited advocacy from groups like Moms Across America for the change but warned the fight isn’t over, with industry likely to push similar protections in future legislation, including the Farm Bill.

05-01-2026