PFAS Regulations and Bans: A Comprehensive Overview (July 9, 2025)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals," are a group of man-made chemicals used in various products, including firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and food packaging. Due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, PFAS have become a major focus of regulatory action globally. This response will detail the current regulations and bans related to PFAS, focusing on the most recent updates as of July 9, 2025.

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United States Federal Regulations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken significant steps to regulate PFAS. In April 2024, the EPA established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for both perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in drinking water.[1] This is a crucial step in protecting public health from PFAS exposure. Furthermore, a key action planned for 2025 is the classification of PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). This classification will compel polluters to bear the costs of cleaning up PFAS contamination.[1] As a result of this, significant settlements have been reached, with approximately $2 billion earmarked from settlements with companies like 3M and DuPont for water treatment efforts across the U.S.[1]

State-Level Bans and Regulations

Several states have implemented their own PFAS regulations, often going beyond federal standards. Maine has enacted a comprehensive ban on all PFAS in products, with a target implementation date of 2030.[1] California has also taken action, banning PFAS in food packaging, textiles, and cosmetics.[1] These state-level initiatives reflect a growing awareness of the widespread use of PFAS and the need for stricter controls.

Global Initiatives

The issue of PFAS regulation is not limited to the United States. The European Union has proposed limits for PFAS in drinking water, ranging from 4 to 100 ppt.[1] Australia and Canada have also announced national bans on PFAS in firefighting foams, with implementation expected by 2026.[1] These global efforts demonstrate a coordinated approach to addressing the risks associated with PFAS.

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