On 14 May 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed it will uphold its existing drinking water limits for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). These substances, part of the broader per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) group, are tightly regulated due to their persistence and toxicity. Professionals across the manufacturing value chain—particularly those in water treatment, materials production, and consumer goods—must now plan for extended but still enforceable compliance expectations as the EPA proposes to push the current 2029 deadline to 2031.
PFAS Regulation and Industry Reaction
The decision follows criticism of the original National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR), which set maximum contaminant levels for PFOA and PFOS. Industry stakeholders, including the American Chemistry Council (ACC), argue that the original rule overlooked scientific input and underestimated its financial impact on smaller communities.
In response, the EPA has introduced the PFAS OUTreach Initiative (PFAS OUT) to deliver technical support and funding guidance, particularly to rural and small-scale water systems. A formal rulemaking to extend the compliance deadline is expected in autumn 2025, with finalisation due by spring 2026.
Understanding PFOA and PFOS Risks
PFOA and PFOS have been widely used in non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and industrial applications. However, both chemicals are linked to serious health concerns, including cancer, liver damage, and reproductive issues. Their chemical structure makes them resistant to degradation, earning them the label “forever chemicals.”
While the current standards aim to reduce these risks, the extended timeline gives facilities additional room to implement appropriate treatment technologies and source alternatives.
Regulatory Scope and Future Developments
In parallel, the EPA is reviewing its regulatory determinations for four additional PFAS—PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and PFBS—indicating a broader reassessment of federal PFAS policies. This could reshape regulatory expectations beyond drinking water, influencing how manufacturers select raw materials and manage legacy contamination.
For companies, now is the time to review compliance strategies, assess technological readiness, and track evolving enforcement standards to avoid potential liabilities.
