Our Top Takeaways on EPA’s PFAS Rollback
EPA’s Latest Stance on PFAS
On May 14, 2025, the United States Environmental Protection Agency provided new direction on the regulation of six perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” under the Final PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation.
In an effort to balance health concerns, developing scientific understanding, and the realities of advanced infrastructure development, several notable actions were announced:
- Reaffirmation of the need to regulate PFOA and PFOS at 4 ppt
- Seeking an extension of the compliance date to 2031
- Proposal to rescind and reconsider the regulatory determinations for the hazard index and the contaminants PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX) and PFBS to verify that Safe Drinking Water Act processes were followed
What This Announcement Means
- Provides a glimpse into the future of the PFAS rule
- Offers a small measure of relief to affected communities
- Considers implementation concerns of industry groups, such as the American Water Works Association and Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies
While we wait for the final details to emerge, it is a good time to remind ourselves that the typical PFAS project schedule for compliance has not gotten any shorter nor less complex. From initial concept through piloting, design, construction and start-up, a typical project still takes over five years.
Steps Communities Can Take Now
To help get communities started, our team developed resources for AWWA, which include:
- Source Water Evaluation Guide for PFAS
- Summary of PFAS Toxicological Research
- Drinking Water Treatment for PFAS Selection Guide
While PFAS is not just a drinking water issue, these guides can help any community craft a sensible roadmap for cost-effectively addressing the risks associated with PFAS.
