The Trump administration has announced its intention to roll back some of the stringent new Pfas “forever chemical” drinking water limits established in April 2024. This move, aimed at benefiting the US chemical and water utility industries, raises concerns about the long-term safety of the country’s drinking water and its impact on efforts to address forever chemical pollution. Despite these actions, legal experts suggest that progress made under the Biden administration may not be entirely reversible, with ongoing regulatory and legal battles at the state level continuing to enhance water quality incrementally.

Pfas, known for their persistence in the environment and association with serious health issues, have contaminated drinking water sources for over 200 million Americans. The 2024 regulations marked a significant step by the EPA in setting new limits for six Pfas compounds. However, the Trump administration has targeted four of these compounds for reversal, prompting criticism from public health advocates and legal challenges over potential violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

While the proposal threatens to weaken protections against certain Pfas, limits for other compounds like PFOA and PFOS remain intact. Concerns also arise regarding the influence of industries and the need for reform within the water utility sector, which has actively opposed these limits. Despite these challenges, ongoing legal actions, settlements, and government funding are driving momentum towards improving water quality standards. Overall, the Trump administration’s rollback efforts have sparked debate and skepticism among stakeholders, underscoring the complex intersection of public health, regulatory compliance, and industry interests in safeguarding the nation’s drinking water.