The Biden administration finalized strict limits on 'forever chemicals' in drinking water, aiming to reduce exposure for 100 million people and prevent illnesses. The rule is the first national drinking water limit on toxic PFAS, which are harmful and long-lasting substances in the environment.
Key Points
First national drinking water limit on toxic PFAS
Strict limits set on harmful chemicals like PFOA and PFOS
Utilities required to test for PFAS and inform the public
Efforts to make tap water safer for millions of consumers
Pros
Reduces exposure to harmful 'forever chemicals' for 100 million people
Helps prevent thousands of illnesses, including cancers
Improves the health and vitality of communities across the country
Cons
Water utilities claim treatment systems are expensive to install, leading to increased costs for customers
Legal challenges expected as the rules will cost tens of billions of dollars
Small communities with fewer resources may be disproportionately impacted