The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released draft national recommended water quality criteria for public comment, focusing on three per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS). These criteria are designed to protect human health and are based on the latest scientific data, providing states and tribes with information for setting their own water quality standards. Comments on this draft can be submitted until February 24, 2025, and the EPA will use this feedback to finalize the criteria. Once finalized, these recommendations will offer guidance on minimizing health risks from PFAS exposure in drinking water and aquatic food sources.
Simple Explanation
The EPA is checking if some chemicals called PFOA, PFOS, and PFBS are safe in water and food to keep people healthy. They want people to share their thoughts by February 24, 2025, before they make a final decision.