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ARTICLE · 23 FEBRUARY 2024

EPA's Latest PFAS Push Targets Nine Substances Under RCRA

Perkins Coie LLP
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan signed two proposed rules related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances...

United StatesEnvironment
Andrea Driggs
Andrea Driggs
Jeffrey Hunter
Jeffrey Hunter
Katie Page
Katie Page
Jane E. Carmody
Jane E. Carmody
Rebecca Human
Rebecca Human

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan signed two proposed rules related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the agency's corrective action authority under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) on January 31, 2024. These proposed rulemakings align with EPA's Strategic Roadmap, announced in 2021 as a "whole-of-agency" approach to addressing PFAS.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are widely used, long-lasting chemicals that break down very slowly over time. Since the 1940s, PFAS have been used to manufacture many products, including nonstick cookware, roofing materials, adhesives, firefighting foam (known as AFFF), stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, and other products that resist grease, water, and oil.

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