Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) is applauding the EPA’s decision to implement the first-ever national drinking water standards to protect communities from exposure to harmful per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals.’ The final rule will reduce PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million people, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious illnesses.

“Everyone deserves access to safe, clean drinking water. But, for years, PFAS chemicals have contaminated our water and polluted our communities—it's critical that water safety be taken seriously,” said Kuster. “These first-ever drinking water standards are an important step to protect communities from PFAS in their drinking water, and I will continue working to make sure New Hampshire has the resources it needs to keep our water safe.”

In addition to the rule, the EPA announced nearly $1 billion in newly available funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities implement PFAS testing and treatment at public water systems and to help owners of private wells address PFAS contamination. New Hampshire is set to receive $9.4 million to address PFAS contamination in the Granite State.

Kuster is a fierce advocate for addressing PFAS and other water contaminants in New Hampshire and beyond. She has fought to strengthen water standards, increase community investments, and highlight the risks of PFAS contamination and exposure. Kuster is also a member of the Bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force. 

###