Experts raise concerns over EPA weakening protections against 'forever chemicals' in drinking water

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a plan to roll back regulations on "forever chemicals," sparking criticism from lawmakers and environmental advocates. During a heated senate hearing, new EPA Director Lee Zeldin faced scrutiny over the potential health risks posed by these changes. Rebecca Sutton, a senior scientist at the San Francisco Estuary Institute, emphasized that even minimal exposure to PFAS can lead to significant health issues, including cancer. The proposal, criticized by environmental groups, would extend the deadline for removing these harmful substances from drinking water to 2031 and eliminate regulations for related chemicals like GenX and PFNA. David Lewis of Save the Bay argued that dismantling EPA protections undermines public health and environmental safety.

Local organizations are now turning to state-level initiatives, as California has enacted stricter regulations on PFAS. With an estimated 158 million Americans exposed to these chemicals in their drinking water, raising public awareness is crucial. Several groups are suing the EPA, citing protections under the Safe Drinking Water Act that prevent the weakening of drinking water standards.