Summary
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to relax rules on certain chemicals called PFAS in drinking water. PFAS chemicals, also known as "forever chemicals," have been linked to health risks and are found in many U.S. water systems. The EPA aims to use a new method, called a "hazard index," to monitor these chemicals instead of the current standards.
Key Facts
- The EPA is considering rolling back standards for PFAS chemicals in drinking water.
- PFAS chemicals are known for their long-lasting nature and are present in many consumer products.
- These chemicals have been linked to health issues like cancer and hormone problems.
- The current standards require water utilities to keep PFAS levels below certain limits by 2029, but the deadline was extended.
- The EPA claims the current rulemaking process did not allow for proper public input.
- The agency suggests using a "hazard index" to assess the risk from multiple PFAS chemicals in water.
- The hazard index would evaluate the combined health risk of multiple PFAS chemicals, not each one separately.
