California PFAS Probe Expands to Military Sites, Refineries

California’s search for the source of “forever chemicals” in drinking water is expanding to include military sites, wastewater treatment plants, chrome-plating facilities, and refineries.

Surveys indicate an estimated 3.5 million Californians use drinking water supplies with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, above federal health advisory levels.

The State Water Resources Control Board in March launched a survey of drinking water supply wells near landfills and airports. With results trickling in, the hunt continues to other locations that could also be the source of PFAS, which can cause developmental issues in children, harm the thyroid, and lead to certain cancers. ...