EPA Advances PFAS Cleanup Rules

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new steps to address cleanup of PFOA and PFOS contamination under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the dual priority of holding polluters accountable while seeking relief for "passive receivers" - municipalities and entities that did not manufacture or generate PFAS but may still face liability. While the agency will continue to enforce the 2024 designation of PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances, Zeldin stressed that a long-term solution requires congressional action to protect passive receivers from unfair costs that often burden local taxpayers and ratepayers.

EPA also intends to develop a CERCLA Section 102(a) Framework Rule to establish a uniform process for future hazardous substance designations, incorporating careful cost-benefit analysis. Building on its PFAS Action Plan and community outreach efforts, the agency pledged disciplined, transparent regulation to ensure safe drinking water while supporting municipalities with technical assistance and resources.

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