PFAS on Illinois EPA’s and U.S. EPA’s Radar

Earlier this year, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency issued health advisories for several per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” after their detection in community water supply wells. These advisories, while not enforceable standards, provide guidance on potential health effects and contaminant levels at which no adverse impacts are expected, and will inform the development of future drinking water standards. At the federal level, PFAS regulation is also gaining momentum: during his nomination hearing, U.S. EPA Administrator nominee Michael S. Regan emphasized that addressing PFAS contamination in air and water would be a top priority for the Biden Administration.