Brunswick H2GO director voices concern over EPA changes to PFAS regulations

BELVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Federal regulators are easing some restrictions on PFAS chemicals in drinking water, prompting concern from utility leaders in the Cape Fear region who say the contaminants remain a serious public health issue.

The Environmental Protection Agency announced Monday it would roll back Biden-era limits on four types of PFAS chemicals, while also giving utilities two additional years to comply with standards on two other compounds.

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to a variety of health concerns and have been detected in drinking water systems across the country. Federal officials estimate roughly 200 million Americans have been exposed to PFAS through drinking water, including many residents here in the Cape Fear region.

While Brunswick H2GO does not draw its water from the Cape Fear River, executive director Bob Walker said he was disappointed by the EPA’s decision.

“It’s an unfortunate, I guess, change in their policies,” Walker said. “PFAS is everywhere across the country and to relax those limits now just doesn’t make any sense. I wish they’d be a little bit more socially conscious and environmentally conscious.”

Walker said he expects other utility companies throughout the Cape Fear region to continue efforts to protect drinking water supplies from harmful chemicals, despite the regulatory changes.