EPA Sets Strict New Limits on PFAS Forever Chemicals in Drinking Water, Aimed at Reducing Exposure and Saving Lives
• The Biden administration finalized the first-ever national drinking water limits on toxic PFAS chemicals, requiring utilities to reduce levels to 4 parts per trillion. This will reduce exposure for 100 million people.
• Health advocates praised the strict limits, but water utilities took issue, saying treatment systems are expensive and customers will pay more. EPA estimates implementation will cost $1.5 billion per year.
• The rule is expected to prevent nearly 10,000 deaths over decades and significantly reduce illnesses like cancer that are linked to PFAS exposure. The chemicals build up in the body over time.
• About 16% of utilities found PFAS chemicals above the new EPA limits. Water providers generally have 5 years to test and install treatment systems if needed.
• Activists say PFAS manufacturers long knew the substances were dangerous but hid the evidence. Now drinking water providers are forced to remove contamination put into the environment by other industries.