Communities Betrayed: EPA’s PFAS Rollback Sparks National Outrage
- Stel Bailey
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
In a move that has sparked national outrage, newly appointed EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has announced a rollback of key PFAS drinking water protections, reversing course on standards finalized just a year ago under the Biden administration. These actions, environmental advocates argue, threaten the health and safety of millions of Americans.
The Fight for Protections
For more than a decade, impacted communities have fought on the frontlines for stronger protections against PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl) substances. These synthetic "forever chemicals" are used in products like nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and water-resistant fabrics. Their ability to resist breaking down means they accumulate in the environment and the human body, posing serious health risks.
Linked to kidney disease, thyroid issues, low birth weight, high cholesterol, and certain cancers, PFAS exposure has been a silent crisis for decades. Despite the known dangers, companies like 3M and Chemours continued manufacturing them, while the military and civilian fire services contributed to widespread contamination.
Last year, the Biden administration set national limits for six PFAS chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS, at 4 parts per trillion, a drastic drop from the previous 70 ppt guideline. These new standards reflected the growing scientific consensus: no level of exposure to some PFAS is considered safe.
The Rollback
The EPA under Zeldin announced it would rescind limits on three PFAS types (GenX, PFHxS, and PFNA) and delay compliance for PFOA and PFOS until 2031. The agency also plans to scrap a novel regulation that targeted PFAS as a chemical group rather than individually.
While the EPA insists few utilities will be impacted by these rollbacks, the decision undermines progress made under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Legal experts argue the EPA cannot legally weaken drinking water standards once established, raising concerns that the rollback is not only dangerous but unlawful.
Industry vs. Public Health
The American Chemistry Council and some utility organizations expressed partial support for the rollback, citing concerns over cost and feasibility. However, advocates argue that economic interests are being prioritized over human health.
“This gives water pros more time to deal with the ones we know are bad,” said Mike McGill, president of WaterPIO. But for communities already living with the consequences of exposure, more time means more harm.
A National Response
The National PFAS Contamination Coalition (NPCC), representing over 42 community organizations, strongly opposes the rollback.
“This announcement is devastating,” said Sandy Wynn-Stelt, NPCC Co-Facilitator. “We’ve waited far too long for these protections. People are getting sick.”
“This is a disturbing step backward,” added Dana Colihan, NPCC Co-Facilitator. “It places the burden back on communities to demand clean water—again.”
From New Hampshire to Florida, New York to Michigan, impacted families and grassroots leaders are demanding action:
Stel Bailey, Fight for Zero (FL): “Weakening these safeguards is a betrayal of public health and of the administration’s promise to ‘Make America Healthy Again.’ This decision does the opposite.”
Laurene Allen, Merrimack Citizens for Clean Water (NH): “Keeping the focus on just two legacy PFAS ignores the immense body of science. This move insults communities already harmed.”
Tony Spaniola, Need Our Water (MI): “PFHxS, a signature chemical in firefighting foam, will now be left completely unregulated. Military families will pay the price.”
Hope Grosse, Buxmont Coalition for Safe Water (PA): “The rollback is not only reckless—it's heartbreaking. We cannot afford to take a step backward now.”
A Call to Action
Community leaders are urging Americans to contact their representatives and demand the EPA restore full PFAS protections. The Safe Drinking Water Act exists to prevent exactly this type of rollback, and public pressure may be the only force capable of halting it.
“The fight for clean water is far from over,” said Emily Donovan of Clean Cape Fear. “The EPA should be protecting us—not the trillion-dollar chemical industry.”
As the EPA reconsiders its regulatory future, one truth remains clear: clean water is not a luxury. It is a human right. Communities across the country are rising up to ensure that truth is never forgotten again.
For more information on PFAS and how to get involved, visit pfasproject.net or contact your state EPA representative.