On September 6, 2022, the EPA proposed a rule to designate the two most studied Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) compounds, Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS), including their salts and structural isomers, as “hazardous substances” under Section 102(a) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended (CERCLA). PFAS are a broad category of man-made chemicals that have been manufactured since the 1940s and used in a variety of products for their heat- and stain-resistance, including stain- and water-repellant fabrics, nonstick products, paints, lubricants, cleaning products and fire-fighting foams. PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the human body and their resistance to degradation in the environment. PFAS are found throughout the environment, including on top of Mount Everest . Read more