EPA Rescinds Most PFAS Water Standards, Delays Others

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will rescind federal drinking water standards for four PFAS chemicals—PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS—while maintaining but delaying compliance for the two most common, PFOA and PFOS, until 2031. This move rolls back a Biden-era rule that imposed strict national limits due to links between PFAS and cancer, liver damage, and developmental harm. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the decision aims to offer flexibility, particularly to smaller utilities, amid legal challenges from both chemical manufacturers and water providers over treatment costs. Environmental groups strongly oppose the rollback, arguing it endangers millions exposed to contaminated water. The EPA plans to revisit and potentially reissue standards for the rescinded chemicals, with a proposed rule expected by 2025 or 2026. The rollback has intensified debate between health advocates and industry groups over the cost and necessity of PFAS regulation.