EPA to Reconsider PFAS Drinking Water Limits, Raising Expert Concerns
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to reconsider drinking water limits for four PFAS chemicals, raising concerns among experts. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are linked to serious health issues and are widespread in the environment, contaminating drinking water sources.
The EPA aims to review the limits for PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, and PFBS, which are all part of the PFAS family. These chemicals are known for their persistence in the environment and their potential to accumulate in the human body, leading to severe health problems. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to higher risks of certain cancers, reproductive health issues, developmental delays, and immune system problems.
The EPA's decision comes after multiple lawsuits challenging the science behind the Biden administration's drinking water standards. The agency also plans to extend compliance deadlines for PFOA and PFOS limits from 2029 to 2031. PFOA is a known carcinogen, while PFOS is classified as a possible carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute.
Meanwhile, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is set to reconsider the limits for the same four PFAS chemicals. The EU-wide regulations aim to establish stricter limits for PFAS in drinking water starting in 2026. The ECHA's previous requirements for public drinking water facilities, scheduled for 2029/31, will be subject to this review.
The EPA's and ECHA's plans to reconsider PFAS limits have raised concerns among experts, who argue that rescinding and reconsidering limits may not be legal, as the Safe Drinking Water Act requires each revision to be at least as strict as the former regulation. The extended compliance deadlines and the review of EU requirements may have significant implications for public health and environmental protection.
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