Washington will move to tougher limits on ‘forever chemicals’ in water

Washington state is poised to adopt new federal drinking water standards targeting PFAS, often called 'forever chemicals' for their long-lasting presence in the environment. The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has established legally enforceable maximum levels for these harmful substances, linked to serious health risks, including cancer and developmental issues in children. Currently, 1,228 water systems in Washington have tested for PFAS, with around 30 reporting contamination levels above state thresholds.

This regulatory shift is expected to significantly enhance public health and safety, with an estimated cost of $1. 6 billion for addressing PFAS contamination. The new federal limits will be stricter than existing state regulations, ensuring better protection for residents. Additionally, testing programs initiated by the state in 2021 will facilitate compliance with the new federal requirements, marking a critical step in addressing long-standing environmental and public health concerns.