By Abdullahi Lukman
The administration of US President Donald Trump on Monday announced plans to reverse or delay drinking water limits on several toxic PFAS chemicals introduced under former President Joe Biden, sparking criticism from public health advocates.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said on Monday , that it would rescind limits on four PFAS compounds and extend the compliance deadline for two others until 2031.
The proposal was unveiled by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr..
PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals”, are widely used in products designed to resist water, grease and stains. Scientists have linked the chemicals to cancer, kidney disease, birth defects, weakened immunity and other serious health conditions.
Because they do not easily break down, PFAS contamination has affected drinking water supplies for more than 200 million Americans.
The Biden administration in 2024 introduced the first new federal drinking water standards in nearly three decades, setting strict limits for six PFAS compounds.
EPA officials at the time said the measures would reduce exposure for about 100 million people and prevent thousands of illnesses and deaths linked to contaminated water.
However, the Trump administration argued that the previous EPA rushed the rule-making process and failed to follow proper legal procedures. Officials said the standards for four compounds would be reviewed again to determine whether they should remain in place.
Speaking at the press conference, Zeldin said the administration remained committed to protecting public health while ensuring regulations were legally sustainable.
Kennedy also denied accusations that the government was weakening environmental protections, insisting the administration was pursuing what he described as a “clean water mandate”.
The move has drawn sharp reactions from environmental groups and public health advocates, who warned that delaying or removing the standards could expose millions of Americans to dangerous chemicals.
Dr Anna Reade of the Natural Resources Defense Council accused the administration of undermining public safety, saying Americans were demanding stronger protections for drinking water.
The proposed changes must still pass through a lengthy federal approval process and are expected to face legal challenges in court.
