The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it plans to keep in place the current National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for two of the PFAS chemicals, PFOA and PFOS. Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are human-made chemicals that do not occur naturally in the environment and can cause adverse developmental and immune system effects. These limits were put in place in April 2024 by the prior administration.   

The new administration announced its intent to extend compliance deadlines for these chemicals, establish a federal exemption framework, and initiate outreach to water systems, particularly in rural and small communities through the new PFAS OUTreach Initiative. The intent is to reduce the burden on drinking water systems while protecting public health. 

The EPA also announced its intent to rescind the portion of regulations, and reconsider the regulatory determinations, for PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (also known as “GenX Chemicals”) that were adopted in April 2024 as part of the rulemaking mentioned above. 

At the time of the 2024 rulemaking, EPA is making $1 billion in funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and it is unclear if these funds will remain available. Funding and assistance through EPA’s Water Technical Assistance Program will continue to help small and rural communities with compliance.  The EPA also announced its intent to work to hold polluters accountable. Click here for the press release.