The EPA has set official limits on six types of forever chemicals in U.S. public drinking water. Experts say it’s a huge step in the right direction, but the limits don’t go into effect immediately. Public health utilities have 5 years to make any adjustments they may need to meet the new standards.
Kaitlin Sullivan is a health and science journalist based in Colorado. She's been part of multiple award-winning investigations into health topics including the international medical device industry and maternal mortality in New York City.Nick Blackmer is a librarian, fact-checker, and researcher with more than 20 years of experience in consumer-facing health and wellness content.Experts say it’s a huge step in the right direction, but the limits don’t go into effect immediately.
Eleven states have also placed limits on certain PFAS in drinking water, but the new federal rule will take precedence if it is stricter than a state’s regulation. Twelve additional states have health advisories or non-binding guidance on PFAS levels in drinking water.The rule applies to 66,000 public water systems and gives them time to comply before it goes into effect.
Beginning in 2029, public water systems that violate the new standards must attempt to reduce levels and notify the public of the violation. Though the EPA noted that part of the $1 billion will address PFAS contamination in private wells, particularly common in rural areas, it’s unclear how people will access this money or whether it would be used for testing.
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