Trump EPA weakens national drinking water protections for toxic “forever chemicals”

(WASHINGTON – May 18, 2026) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will roll back drinking water limits on four PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” and delay compliance for two others, Administrator Lee Zeldin announced today.

“There’s nothing gold-standard about tearing down the science-based protections that help keep our drinking water safe. PFAS are highly toxic, even at very low levels, and are linked to liver damage, cancers and other health problems for children and pregnant women. Needlessly exposing millions of Americans to PFAS prioritizes the interests of polluters over the rest of us. It’s another way the Trump administration is making life more dangerous for American families.” 

• Maria Doa, Senior Director, Chemicals Policy