NPR MarketPlace | Bill to Regulate “Teflon” Chemicals in Water Continues through Congress (Audio)

On July 21, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the PFAS Action Act — the most comprehensive piece of federal legislation thus far to deal with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been manufactured since the 1940s. PFAS have been found in many common products, including firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, cleaning products, paints and sealants, personal care products, and cosmetics. They are known as "forever chemicals," because they resist degradation and are highly persistent in the environment. If passed by the U.S. Senate, the PFAS Action Act will have sweeping implications for regulated businesses and industries.

The 2020 National Defense Authorization Act and forthcoming regulatory action by the Environmental Protection Agency will directly impact industries that manufacture, process, or utilize PFAS chemicals. This article looks at the recent EPA actions and what to expect in the future for these forever chemicals.

Jeffrey Dintzer is quoted on proposed congressional legislation that classifies per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances as hazardous under the federal Superfund law.