North Carolina regulators are clashing with the state’s Chamber of Commerce over delaying rules for PFAS chemicals after dangerous levels were found at an elementary school.
Lisa Sorg reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Chemours and DuPont discharged PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," into the Cape Fear River for over 30 years, causing widespread contamination. In June, levels at a North Carolina elementary school were found to be 233 times the federal limit.
- North Carolina's DEQ seeks to regulate eight PFAS compounds to reduce contamination, but the Chamber of Commerce is lobbying for a delay, fearing economic impacts.
- DEQ Secretary Elizabeth Biser criticized the EMC's slow progress, emphasizing the need for swift action to protect public health.
Key quote:
“Do they really need to count body bags before they take action?”
— Elizabeth Biser, DEQ Secretary
Why this matters:
PFAS contamination poses serious health risks, including cancer, and affects millions of North Carolina residents. The state faces a critical decision balancing public health with economic concerns, as delays in regulation could lead to prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals.
