PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act of 2025
Summary
The PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act of 2025 aims to codify the EPA's final rule on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in drinking water. This bill would give the EPA regulation the force of law. The regulation was issued on April 26, 2024, and this bill seeks to solidify it.
Expected Effects
This act will ensure that the EPA's PFAS regulation remains in effect, even if future administrations attempt to weaken or repeal it. It mandates adherence to specific standards for PFAS levels in drinking water across the nation. This will likely lead to increased monitoring and treatment of water supplies.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures consistent national standards for PFAS in drinking water.
- Potentially reduces health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
- Provides a legal basis for enforcing PFAS regulations.
- May encourage investment in water treatment technologies.
- Could lead to improved public trust in water quality.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for water utilities, potentially passed on to consumers.
- Potential challenges for smaller communities to meet the standards.
- Possible legal challenges to the codification.
- Focuses solely on drinking water, neglecting other PFAS exposure pathways.
- May require significant infrastructure upgrades.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the Constitution through Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, as water systems often cross state lines. It also indirectly relates to the general welfare clause, as ensuring safe drinking water promotes public health. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).