MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan is adopting new standards when it comes to how much PFAS contamination can be in drinking water.
The new rule, which is expected to take effect on August 3rd, will implement stricter limits on seven different types of PFAS compounds.
The new standards set limits for the following PFAS chemicals:
- PFNA (6-parts per trillion)
- PFOA (8-parts per trillion)
- PFOS (16-parts per trillion)
- PFHxS (51-parts per trillion)
- GenX (370-parts per trillion)
- PFBS (420-parts per trillion)
- PFHxA (400,000-parts per trillion)
PFAS has been used in a number of materials like firefighting foam and nonstick cookware. Health concerns rose when high levels of the toxic chemical began to surface in drinking water near military bases, factories, and other facilities that used this compound.
Research has shown PFAS may contribute to a number of health threats like cancer, thyroid conditions, auto-immune diseases and reproductive issues.
Now, the new limits will give Michigan some of the toughest PFAS standards in the country.
In a written statement on Wednesday, Bob Allison the deputy director of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters said, “Over the past year, Michiganders across the state have advocated for setting the strongest standards for PFAS in the country to protect Michigan communities from these dangerous forever chemicals. These rules come at a time when studies show exposure to PFAS chemicals is linked to immune deficiencies that exacerbate the impacts of Covid-19. The standards that take effect today are based on sound science and will make Michigan a national leader on protections against PFAS. We applaud EGLE and Gov. Whitmer for working to protect our drinking water and the health of our communities.”
More information can be found here.
