AUGUSTA - On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced final rules that will establish new standards to limit exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," in drinking water.
Additionally, the agency announced that $1 billion will be newly available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help states implement PFAS testing and treatment at public water systems, as well as to help owners of private wells address contamination.
In response to the announcement, Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel, and Rep. Lori Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach issued the following statement:
"Since the PFAS crisis first came to our attention, Maine has been an international leader in combating this issue. We have already made significant progress to slow the amount of PFAS coming into our state, improve testing and increase investments in remediation efforts. Today's announcement by the Environmental Protection Agency that it is setting strong, enforceable standards for PFAS in drinking water systems is a critical step forward. It will complement our state's ongoing efforts and better protect the health of Mainers. The PFAS crisis poses a risk to all of us, and we are grateful that the federal government is taking meaningful action."
In Maine, the Legislature has already taken significant steps to limit PFAS exposure in the state, including passing landmark legislation in 2021 that would phase out the sale of products containing PFAS and improve testing of test soil and groundwater.
Contact:
Lisa Haberzettl [Ingwersen], 207-251-3548
Brian Lee [Gramlich], 305-965-2744