In 2022, EPA published draft national recommended aquatic life criteria regarding the effects of PFOA and PFOS on freshwater organisms. Once finalized, states can adopt these recommended criteria into water quality standards to protect against the harmful effects of the chemicals on aquatic life.
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Clean Water Act (CWA)
There are several CWA authorities that can be used to address PFAS in surface water, including authroizing EPA and states to limit or prohibit discharges of PFAS in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits they issue, or requiring EPA to establish technolgy-based Effluent Limitation Guidelines for industrial dischargers.
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
TSCA is the authority EPA uses to manage risks for chemicals, including PFAS.
ASDWA White Paper: Lessons Learned from States and Challenges Ahead in Setting State-Level PFAS Standards
Focuses on how states are setting PFAS standards in drinking water
ITRC Risk Communication Toolkit for Environmental Issues and Concerns
ITRC’s risk communication toolkit outlines best practices for delivering important information on current, immediate, and emerging environmental issues and concerns, like PFAS.
ECOS/ERIS PFAS Risk Communications Hub
ECOS and ASTHO in 2018 developed a clearinhouse of PFAS risk communication resources and FAQs on how to communicate to four key audiences (the public, media, legislatures, and clinicians) about PFAS.
