Coastal States’ Approaches to Fluorinated Chemicals Converge (1)

West Coast states have focused on getting a family of ubiquitous chemicals out of pizza boxes and popcorn bags, but are starting to turn their attention to East Coast states’ top priority: limiting the contaminants in drinking water.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which have been found in drinking water systems throughout the country, have triggered different reactions from state governments from coast to coast. The thousands of chemicals, also known as PFAS, have been used to manufacture nonstick and stain-resistant coatings in clothing, fast-food wrappers, carpets, and other consumer and industrial products.

States and the Environmental Protection Agency don’t agree ...