Biden administration proposes limits on 'forever chemicals' in drinking water

The Biden administration proposed a new rule Tuesday to limit the level of “forever chemicals” in drinking water nationwide.

The new rule seeks to limit the level of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS substances. PFAS substances are harmful chemicals that can contaminate drinking water and have been linked to serious health problems, including thyroid problems and certain types of cancer.

PFAS substances are often referred to as “forever chemicals" because they can stay in soil and water permanently.

The proposed regulation would establish a national maximum contaminant level for six different types of PFAS chemical compounds.