This bill matters because perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called 'forever chemicals,' are known to be persistent in the environment and have been linked to a range of health concerns, including cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system problems. Currently, federal regulation of airborne PFAS can be complex and less comprehensive without a formal hazardous air pollutant designation for the class of chemicals.
If this bill becomes law, it would trigger the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop specific regulations and emission standards for industries that release these substances into the air. This means industries would be required to install technologies to capture or reduce PFAS emissions, leading to less of these chemicals in the air we breathe. If it doesn't become law, the process for regulating airborne PFAS could remain slower, more piecemeal, and less stringent, potentially allowing higher levels of these chemicals to continue being released into the environment.
KEY PROVISIONS
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PROVISION 01
Requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a final rule adding a class of PFAS substances to the list of hazardous air pollutants within 180 days of the bill becoming law.
This is the central action of the bill, formally categorizing a broad group of PFAS as dangerous air pollutants, which triggers federal regulatory authority.
PROVISION 02
Directs the EPA to identify and list categories of major and area sources (types of industries or facilities) that emit these listed PFAS substances within 365 days after the initial listing rule.
This step ensures the EPA can effectively target and regulate the specific industries and facilities responsible for releasing these hazardous air pollutants.
This bill matters because perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called 'forever chemicals,' are known to be persistent in the environment and have been linked to a range of health concerns, including cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system problems. Currently, federal regulation of airborne PFAS can be complex and less comprehensive without a formal hazardous air pollutant designation for the class of chemicals.
If this bill becomes law, it would trigger the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop specific regulations and emission standards for industries that release these substances into the air. This means industries would be required to install technologies to capture or reduce PFAS emissions, leading to less of these chemicals in the air we breathe. If it doesn't become law, the process for regulating airborne PFAS could remain slower, more piecemeal, and less stringent, potentially allowing higher levels of these chemicals to continue being released into the environment.
KEY PROVISIONS
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Requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a final rule adding a class of PFAS substances to the list of hazardous air pollutants within 180 days of the bill becoming law.
This is the central action of the bill, formally categorizing a broad group of PFAS as dangerous air pollutants, which triggers federal regulatory authority.
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Directs the EPA to identify and list categories of major and area sources (types of industries or facilities) that emit these listed PFAS substances within 365 days after the initial listing rule.
This step ensures the EPA can effectively target and regulate the specific industries and facilities responsible for releasing these hazardous air pollutants.
EPA must issue a final rule adding PFAS as a class to the list of hazardous air pollutants.
365 days after the final rule issued for the listing of PFAS
EPA must revise the list of source categories for major and area sources of these listed PFAS substances.
GLOSSARY
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Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
A large group of human-made chemicals used in various products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, and firefighting foams. They are known for their persistence in the environment and are sometimes called 'forever chemicals'.
Hazardous Air Pollutant (HAP)
A type of air pollutant that is known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health effects, such as reproductive problems or birth defects, or adverse environmental effects. Once a substance is listed as an HAP, the EPA must develop regulations to limit its emissions from industrial sources.
Clean Air Act (CAA)
A federal law that gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to protect public health and the environment from harmful air pollution. It sets national air quality standards and regulates emissions from various sources.
Final Rule
A regulation issued by a government agency (like the EPA) that has the force of law. It means the agency has completed its rulemaking process, including public comment periods, and the rule is ready to be implemented.
Major Sources
Industrial facilities or other locations that emit large quantities (above certain thresholds) of a hazardous air pollutant into the atmosphere. These sources are subject to stricter federal emission controls.
Area Sources
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTS
JAN 8
Introduced in House
INTROREFERRAL
JAN 8
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Smaller, more numerous facilities or activities that individually emit smaller quantities of hazardous air pollutants, but collectively can contribute significantly to air pollution. Examples might include dry cleaners or gas stations.
