Biden administration proposes national limit for toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in drinking water

The Biden administration on Tuesday proposed the first-ever nationwide drinking limits for toxic substances known as “forever chemicals” that have become pervasive in U.S waterways. 

The chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been found to cause kidney and testicular cancer, as well as thyroid disease. 

They are sometimes called “forever chemicals” because they linger in the environment and human body instead of breaking down. Studies have found the chemicals to be in more than 83 percent of U.S. waterways and in the blood of 97 percent of Americans.

The substances have been used in a variety of waterproof and nonstick products including Teflon pans and waterproof makeup and apparel. They have also been used in firefighting foam that has been used by the military, and has leached into waterways through pollution from both industry and military sites. 

If finalized, the proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency would require drinking water systems across the country to limit the amount of two types of PFAS, known as PFOA and PFOS, to 4 parts per trillion. 

It would also take action to regulate mixtures of four other types of PFAS.

This story is developing and will be updated.