New York ‘Forever Chemical’ Rules Delayed by Coronavirus Efforts

New York’s plans to set maximum contaminant levels for “forever chemicals” in drinking water were again delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The state’s Public Health and Health Planning Council was expected to set the levels and finalize rules requiring water system monitoring for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, PFAS, as well as 1,4-dioxane, at its June 4 meeting.

It was canceled because the department is focused on fighting Covid-19 and because of budget uncertainty that could affect funding for water treatment, Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Brad Hutton told Bloomberg Law on Tuesday. “We’re still around the clock, 24-7 responding to ...