EPA Wastewater Study on PFAS Chemicals Underwent Delays, Former Officials State

Why it matters locally: Minnesota has been at the forefront of addressing PFAS contamination, with numerous sites identified across the state and ongoing efforts to regulate and mitigate these 'forever chemicals.' Delays in a federal study identifying industrial sources of PFAS in wastewater could impede local and state-level efforts to control pollution and ensure public health.

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WASHINGTON – A study intended to help regulators identify industrial sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in wastewater experienced delays, two former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials said. These individuals participated in the study's development. According to the former EPA employees, the study aimed to provide information on which industries discharge the chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” with their wastewater.