EPA withdraws plan to regulate harmful ‘PFAS’ chemicals in drinking water
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Just days into President Donald Trump’s second term, the federal government has made major changes to environmental regulations.
A significant change is the regulation of toxins in drinking water or so-called “forever chemicals” that can build up in the environment and our bodies.
These chemicals are found in the drinking water consumed by most people in Arizona. This week, the Trump administration withdrew a pending plan to limit the amount of PFAS chemicals the industry can release into the environment.
“If you’re wondering right now, have I picked those PFAS? The answer is yes, definitely,” explained Dr. Rhett Larson, a water law professor at Arizona State University.
While there is still very little known about the chemicals, he says there’s strong evidence that exposure to PFAS can cause cancer.
“They’re everywhere. If you use nonstick appliances, if you have Scotchgard on your couches, it’s often used in making more flame retardant materials, so frequently in your clothing,” he said.
