PFAS in drinking water

Federal limits for PFAS in tap water and compliance deadlines

The EPA sets enforceable maximum contaminant levels for PFOA, PFOS, and potentially other PFAS chemicals in public drinking water, along with deadlines for water systems to comply. Current disputes include whether to keep limits for additional PFAS like GenX, how much time systems should have to install treatment, and whether small or struggling systems should qualify for exemptions.

Chemical company liability for PFAS contamination

Under Superfund law, the EPA can designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances and pursue polluters for cleanup costs. Lawsuits and settlements have required companies like Chemours to fund testing and remediation in specific areas. Policy disputes include how broadly to apply polluter-pays principles, whether passive receivers like water utilities should get liability exemptions, and how to ensure contaminated communities can recover costs.

Federal grants and loans for PFAS water treatment

Federal programs including the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, Emerging Contaminants grants for small or disadvantaged communities, and WIFIA loans provide money to help water systems install PFAS treatment. Technical assistance programs like PFAS OUT and WaterTA help systems navigate options. Disputes center on funding levels, eligibility rules, and whether support reaches small and rural systems facing the biggest cost burdens.

Blood testing and health tracking for PFAS exposure

People exposed to PFAS through drinking water want to understand their health risks and whether blood testing, biomonitoring programs, or clinical follow-up is available. Some communities have had access to testing through state programs or litigation, but there is no consistent national program. Policy questions include whether to expand testing access, how to interpret results, and what medical guidance to provide.

Water filter safety standards

Water filters and treatment systems paid for with public money should meet trusted safety standards and be installed and maintained correctly.

Help for unsafe drinking water

Public help for unsafe drinking water should reach communities and households that cannot afford to fix contamination on their own.

PFAS exposure lawsuits

People exposed to PFAS chemicals should have a clear way to hold responsible companies accountable in court.

Tax help for home water filters

People should be able to get federal tax help when they buy home water filters that reduce harmful chemicals or lead.

Pollution control and cleanups

The federal government should fund pollution control, chemical safety, cleanups, and environmental programs that protect health and communities.

Federal help for local drinking water

The federal government should help pay when a local drinking water system must move because its wells are on federal land.

Military PFAS cleanup oversight

The Department of Defense should have to show clear progress and priorities for cleaning up PFAS pollution at military sites.

Tracking rural water problems

Congress and the public should get clear information about rural water problems, which treatments are used, and what barriers keep people from safe drinking water.