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EPA proposes national standard targeting 'forever chemicals' in drinking water
EPA proposes national standard targeting 'forever chemicals' in drinking water
The proposal would set maximum contaminant levels for PFAS, a class of chemicals known to pose significant health risks, including increased risk of certain cancers.
March 14, 2023, 7:00 AM PDT
By Zoë Richards and Frank Thorp V
The Biden administration announced a proposal Tuesday to reduce harmful chemicals in drinking water, the first time the federal government has suggested setting such a standard for the so-called forever chemicals.
The Environmental Protection Agency's proposal would limit per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, by establishing legally enforceable levels for six manufactured chemicals that are known to contaminate drinking water and pose significant health risks, including cancer, even at low levels.
The proposal would set maximum contaminant levels permitted in drinking water for several synthetic chemicals that are slow to break down. If it is implemented, the regulation would require public water systems to monitor the chemicals and alert the public if the chemicals rise above established thresholds.
