02-10-2019, 12:29 AM
Quote:Resisting calls from public health advocates for stricter regulations on toxic chemicals, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to refuse to set limits on the amount of two dangerous chemicals allowed in the nation’s drinking water. Millions of Americans drink water that exceeds the government’s non-enforceable health advisory limit for the two chemicals — perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) — according to studies. The chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and weakened childhood immunity, are the best-known members of the family of highly fluorinated compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. These chemicals are typically used in Teflon, Scotch-Guard, and other consumer products, as well as foam used in fire-fighting. But on Monday, Politico reported that Acting EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler approved a management plan of non-stick chemicals in December that stated the EPA would not set limits on amounts of PFOA and PFOS in drinking water.Trump’s EPA will not set legal limit on dangerous chemicals in drinking water, report says – ThinkProgress