The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced new measures targeting PFAS, chemicals that contaminate nearly half of the US drinking water, but experts criticize the plan for lacking essential details and urgency. PFAS, also known as 'forever chemicals', have been linked to serious health problems, and the EPA under the Biden administration had previously set historic regulations to remove PFAS from water. Legal challenges and a potential shift in EPA's stance under different administrations have caused delays and uncertainties in enforcing these rules. Critics are concerned that the EPA's recent announcement is more about creating a distraction than implementing effective action, especially amid plans to significantly cut the agency's budget and resources. Experts advise individuals to monitor local water utilities' efforts in reducing PFAS and consider using certified water filters at home to limit exposure.

The EPA's new measures focus on targeting PFAS, chemicals that persist in the environment and accumulate in human bodies, posing significant health risks such as cancer and reproductive issues. However, experts express concerns over the lack of clear action and urgency in addressing this public health crisis.

During the Biden administration, the EPA introduced regulations requiring water systems to remove PFAS by 2029 and classify certain PFAS types as hazardous, which drew lawsuits from industry groups concerned about the potential costs.

The Trump administration's EPA suspended litigation on these regulations, creating uncertainty on whether the rules would be defended, revised, or rescinded, with deadlines for decisions being extended multiple times.

Critics argue that the recent EPA announcement lacks specifics and might undermine meaningful efforts to control PFAS levels, especially as the agency plans to drastically reduce its budget and cut its research capabilities.

Experts recommend individuals take proactive steps to limit PFAS exposure by checking local water utility reports and using certified water filters, while avoiding certain products like nonstick cookware that may contribute to PFAS exposure.