For the first time ever, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a national regulation targeting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. Often termed “forever chemicals,” PFAS have permeated air, water, and soil, posing enduring environmental and health risks. “Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, according to a CBS News report. The regulations will have sweeping effects across the country, including municipalities like Emporia. City of Emporia Communications Manager Christine Torrens told The Gazette this week that the city is working proactively to address concerns regarding PFAS chemicals in drinking water. “The City of Emporia has sent water samples to KDHE to determine the current levels of PFAS chemicals present,” she said. “While the results are pending, city staff is in communication with KDHE to promptly receive the findings. It’s worth noting that the water provided to residents not only meets but surpasses KDHE standards, earning awards for its quality over multiple years.” According to CBS News, the new EPA regulations mandates testing for six specific PFAS chemicals in public water systems, aiming to shield over 100 million Americans from potential health hazards associated with PFAS exposure.
Source: Emporia Gazette
