EPA Accepting Comments On Proposal To Regulate PFOA, PFOS In Drinking Water

On February 20, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it is accepting public comments on a proposed determination to regulate perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in drinking water. 

The preliminary determinations continue EPA's efforts to implement its PFAS Action Plan.

“The U.S. leads the world in providing access to safe drinking water for its citizens, thanks in part to EPA’s implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Under President Trump’s leadership, EPA is following through on its commitment in the Action Plan to evaluate PFOA and PFOS under this Act.”

EPA is seeking public comment on its proposed regulatory determinations for eight contaminants listed on the fourth Contaminant Candidate List. 

The Agency is proposing to regulate two contaminants, PFOS and PFOA. EPA is also asking for information and data on other PFAS substances, as well as seeking comment on potential monitoring requirements and regulatory approaches EPA is considering for PFAS chemicals. 

The Agency is proposing to not regulate six contaminants: 1,1-dichloroethane, acetochlor, methyl bromide, metolachlor, nitrobenzene, and RDX.

EPA will seek comment on these preliminary determinations for 60 days after the notice is published in the Federal Register.

Click Here for the formal announcement.

Visit DEP’s PFAS In Pennsylvania webpage to learn more about these contaminants in Pennsylvania.  A copy of the PFAS Action Team Initial Report and recommendations is also available.

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Penn State: Persistent PFOS Contamination Exposure Changes Gut Microbiome Of Mice, Could Have Implications For Human Health

[Posted: February 21, 2020]  PA Environment Digest