The It Couple: Environmental Justice And PFAS

EPA recently held its first of two public meetings to garner input on environmental justice considerations related to the development of the proposed per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) national primary drinking water regulation (NPDWR) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The purpose of the public meetings is for EPA to share information and provide an opportunity for communities to offer input on the development of the proposed PFAS NPDWR and the regulation's fair treatment of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income.

During the March 2, 2022 meeting, which was held virtually, representatives of environmental groups and community activists urged EPA to develop multiple regulations under various environmental statutes to regulate PFAS. Commenters argued the proposed PFAS drinking water standards will have no effect on the underlying source of PFAS, nor will it address issues related to disposal of water treatment wastes.