DES commissioner promises new limits for PFCs

In a June 28 press release, the commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services pledged to set drinking water standards for perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) by January 1, 2019.

The New Hampshire commissioner said the process will begin as soon as Gov. Sununu signs legislation enabling the new rules.

About the new rules

Current state law allows the Department of Environmental Services (DES) to establish ambient groundwater quality standards, which regulate when the state can require cleanup of a water source. This includes setting limits on PFCs.

However, DES says they need more authority to regulate PFCs in drinking water. In particular, DES says state law must change to allow them to regulate PFC pollution that starts in the air and ends up in drinking water. The legislation waiting for Gov. Sununu's signature gives DES this power and responsibility to set and enforce drinking water standards related to PFCs.

Click here to learn more about public protection of water sources in New Hampshire

A history of PFC contamination

PFCs are used in firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpeting, and many other products. While almost everyone has small amounts of PFCs in their body, some studies suggest long-term exposure is linked to cancer and other health problems.

The state started investigating PFC contamination after water near Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics in Merrimack showed high levels of PFCs.

A few months later the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued new recommendations for PFC limits in water, which New Hampshire adopted for its ambient groundwater quality standards.

However, many states have set lower limits for PFCs in groundwater. The EPA is also working on new, stricter recommended limits.

Do you have an opinion on how New Hampshire should regulate PFCs in drinking water and groundwater? Share your thoughts in the comments below.