EPA to Roll Back Drinking Water Standards
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to revise drinking water regulations for certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have been linked to long-term environmental and health risks. The move to weaken existing standards has alarmed scientists and environmental groups who warn it could undo years of progress toward cleaner, safer water.
A Growing Concern
The decision comes as new data reveal that millions of Americans already consume water containing PFAS. Experts fear that easing regulations will allow contamination levels to rise, putting public health at risk. Critics say this change favors industry convenience over community safety.
Years of Advocacy at Stake
Phil Brown, director of Northeastern University’s Social Science Environmental Health Research Institute, noted that these regulations took years to develop. They were built on collaboration among scientists, residents, and advocates determined to hold polluters accountable. Rolling them back, he said, undermines the collective work of those striving for cleaner water.
What Makes PFAS Dangerous
PFAS are used in countless products, from cookware to electronics, because they resist water, oil, and heat. But their durability means they linger in the environment indefinitely. Some types are recognized as carcinogens, and studies link them to cancers, hormonal issues, and immune disorders. Their persistence has made them one of the most challenging pollutants to control.
The Rule Under Review
Earlier regulations required utilities to keep PFAS below strict limits by 2029. But the EPA now argues that parts of the rule were established without sufficient public input, violating the Safe Drinking Water Act. The agency has asked the court to void limits for three specific PFAS chemicals while keeping others in place.
A Shift Toward the “Hazard Index”
Instead of maintaining separate limits, the EPA proposes a “hazard index” approach that measures the combined risk of multiple PFAS compounds. Supporters say this reflects real-world exposure more accurately. Critics, however, believe it weakens enforcement and creates uncertainty for communities seeking clear protection standards.
Public Reaction and Political Tension
Environmental advocates warn that without firm limits, PFAS could spread further through water and soil. Katherine O’Brien of Earthjustice accused the agency of putting industry profits above public health. Others view the rollback as part of a broader deregulatory trend that prioritizes short-term economic interests over environmental safety.
What Comes Next
The final outcome depends on the court’s ruling. While the case proceeds, the EPA says it will continue reviewing compliance deadlines and reconsidering how to regulate PFAS mixtures. Communities, scientists, and environmental groups remain watchful, hoping that access to clean, safe water remains a national priority.