The National Association of Counties (NACo) has released a
comprehensive legislative analysis on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), highlighting their pervasive presence and regulatory challenges.
PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are found in many consumer products and can persist in the environment, posing significant health risks. Key points to the PFAS regulations include:
- PFAS Regulation Actions: On April 19, 2024, the EPA designated two PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances under CERCLA, leading to potential economic burdens for counties due to PFAS contamination in water systems, landfills, and other facilities.
- PFAS Regulation - Drinking Water: On April 10, 2024, the EPA issued a regulation for six PFAS chemicals under the Safe Drinking Water Act, imposing significant costs on public water systems to comply with new standards.
- PFAS Legislation: The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee's draft legislation aims to prevent PFAS pollution and clean up existing contamination. However, it lacks provisions to exempt local governments from liability under CERCLA.
- PFAS Funding: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates $10 billion over five years to address PFAS in drinking water and wastewater, with additional funding for airports to manage PFAS waste.
NACo continues to advocate for federal support and exemptions to protect local governments from bearing the financial burden of PFAS regulation and clean up. For more detailed information, visit the NACo website.
MACo Coverage on PFAS
PFAS: What Are They? Why Do They Matter? What's Next?
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