Massachusetts to Limit Fluorinated Chemicals in Drinking Water (1)

Massachusetts will regulate five common fluorinated contaminants in drinking water in response to a petition by environmental groups seeking enforceable limits.

The state’s Department of Environmental Protection, citing human health concerns, will establish limits for per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) compounds, a group of substances found in food packaging, common household products like stain-resistant fabrics and nonstick cookware, and firefighting foam.

Martin Suuberg, commissioner of the Massachusetts DEP, said in a Jan. 28 letter that analytical methods and treatment technologies are available to test for and manage the contamination.

The maximum contaminant levels will ...