During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the evolving regulations surrounding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), highlighting significant updates from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Kim Regan, representing Jacobs Engineering, provided insights into the agency's ongoing efforts to address PFAS contamination, which has garnered increasing attention since the release of the PFAS roadmap in October 2021.

The presentation outlined key federal actions, emphasizing that these initiatives are national rather than state or local. A primary focus is on new drinking water regulations, specifically the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) established under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The EPA has set enforceable limits for certain PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS, with compliance deadlines extended from three to five years to allow utilities adequate time to adapt.

Regan noted that the EPA is also finalizing a national sampling program for wastewater, aimed at establishing baseline data on PFAS levels across various utilities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to potentially regulate PFAS discharges under the Clean Water Act.

The presentation detailed the complexities of compliance monitoring, which will require utilities to conduct initial monitoring and report findings in consumer confidence reports. By June 2029, all public water systems must comply with the new MCLs, with specific milestones set for monitoring and public notification of any exceedances.

Overall, the meeting underscored the federal government's commitment to addressing PFAS contamination through comprehensive regulatory measures, reflecting growing public concern over the health impacts of these substances.