New U.S. PFAS regulations may force sale restrictions for certain fertilizer products

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely utilized for their stain- and waterproof properties in numerous products. However, the associations between PFAS exposure and serious health issues have led to substantial regulatory action internationally. This backdrop sets the stage for what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will implement following the finalized drinking water standards for PFAS in 2024.

Under the new EPA guidelines, states are mandated to establish regulations that maintain PFAS levels at or below the determined federal standards within two years, accompanied by systematic monitoring and enforceable compliance measures. To support these efforts, states have been allocated $1 billion in federal funds to assist with testing and treatment procedures.

Additionally, numerous PFAS-related bills have been introduced across 30 states, reflecting a concerted effort to regulate or mitigate PFAS impacts. Noteworthy initiatives include a Texas proposal to introduce criminal penalties for selling fertilizer products with PFAS levels above set limits, highlighting concerns over livestock health, and a Maine bill requiring health insurance providers to cover PFAS blood testing.

Source from: fertilizerdaily