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ARTICLE · 18 MAY 2026

EPA Rolls Back PFAS Regulations, States Fill The Gap

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the past two months has undertaken an extraordinary level of activity in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) regulation and technical guidance.

United StatesEnvironment
Erin M. Carter
Erin M. Carter
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Summary

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the past two months has undertaken an extraordinary level of activity in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) regulation and technical guidance. The EPA has:

Meanwhile, states continue to drive aggressive regulatory requirements.

The Upshot

  • EPA’s Comprehensive PFAS Strategy, announced May 18, 2026, retains the 4 ppt drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS, proposes rescinding standards for four other PFAS (PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and Hazard Index mixtures), and extends compliance deadlines to 2031.

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