Substances: Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Water Systems

substances: By the end of this year, the EPA will propose a regulatory determination for the chemicals, the next step toward establishing limits under the Safe Drinking Water Act, Wheeler said in Philadelphia as he released the agency's policy for dealing with the substances, according to CTV. The EPA has faced criticism from lawmakers in both major political parties as an increasing number of states have discovered perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known collectively as PFAS, in public water systems and private wells. Acting EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said the immediate focus would be on two of the most common chemicals in the group, both of which have been phased out by manufacturers but remain in the environment and have suspected links to health threats ranging from cancer to decreased fertility. The synthetic chemicals are found in firefighting foam, nonstick pots and pans, water-repellent clothing and many other household and personal items. Scientific studies have found associations between the chemicals and cancer, thyroid disease, ulcerative colitis and other health issues. Environmentalists have criticized the agency, saying it had not acted fast enough. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.