Hi friend,

This is concerning. The PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has identified multiple sites across Pennsylvania that have been contaminated by toxic man-made chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). 

These “forever chemicals” have already tainted the water, air, and soil across the country and are linked to multiple health problems, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system problems.

In response to this widespread contamination and years of advocacy by concerned citizens across the state, the DEP is considering new rules that would finally set maximum limits on two of the most common types of PFAS in public drinking water supplies. But given how pervasive these chemicals are to our health and environment, their current proposal doesn't go nearly far enough, as studies have shown the proposed new levels are still dangerous to human health. Additionally, dozens of harmful PFAS chemicals would be excluded from the rule, leaving Pennsylvania communities vulnerable to ongoing drinking water contamination.

The DEP is accepting public comments on their proposed rule until April 27. This is our chance to demand a rule that applies equal protection against these toxic chemicals through regular testing and stronger standards. Will you take a stand for public health and join us? 

PFAS are a class of man-made toxic chemicals that includes more than 3,000 substances used in a variety of stain and water repellent products like nonstick cookware, flame-retardant fabrics, and even fire fighting foam — which happens to account for the largest source of PFAS contamination in Pennsylvania. These products leave a toxic trail of pollution, contaminating the drinking water around factories, and — when the product is thrown out — polluting nearby communities where it ends up. Communities of color and low-wealth communities often bear the brunt of the impact because they are most likely to live near hazardous industrial or waste sites, due to structural racism and power imbalances.

While it’s good that the proposed rule would address PFAS contamination in our public water systems, it does nothing to protect private systems, which are predominant in low-income, rural areas. As a result, it puts a burden on low-income residents to pay out of pocket for water quality tests since the government isn’t doing anything to help.

This is also not the first time Pennsylvania has vowed to address PFAS contamination. Years ago, the government made sure we got PFAS out of our frying pans and plastic bottles. Why can’t they do the same thing for our drinking water?

Once the new PFAS rules are in place, it could be decades before they’re changed again, so don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard to protect PA families. Tell the DEP to strengthen its proposed PFAS/MCL rule before the April 27 deadline >> 

Thanks for adding your voice.

Michelle Giles

Policy Analyst

Conservation Voters of PA

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