EDC Policy Updates

Speakers during an online public hearing Tuesday largely and roundly criticized the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to repeal federal drinking water limits for four per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and delay the deadline for water utilities to comply with limits for related compounds by two years.

Environmental protection agency and independent studies have found that food is the biggest source of PFAS chemical exposure.

The agency’s actions come amid anger over a Supreme Court decision in a glyphosate case and an executive order over regenerative agriculture. 

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his allies promised public health libertarianism. The idea couldn’t survive once they took power.

The EPA has approved two new fluorinated pesticides for corn and soybeans, sparking controversy over health risks and legal challenges following a Supreme Court ruling limiting lawsuits against pesticide makers.

For the next five years, the Environmental Protection Agency has indicated it will not require public water utilities to test for microplastics or pharmaceuticals in drinking water.

Some in northeastern Ontario, Canada, say they have questions about a new law that allows the Prime Minister’s cabinet to authorize the use of pesticides, even if Health Canada has deemed them unsafe.

Legal experts said while the SCOTUS decision is a blow for people who blame injuries on pesticide exposure, it’s not a knock-out punch.

The US Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the former Monsanto company in a closely watched case that limits people’s ability to sue pesticide companies for alleged illnesses or injuries.

A lawsuit filed by an environmental group is demanding answers after the USDA failed to turn over records related to an executive order issued by President Donald Trump protecting the production of glyphosate.

Herbicide manufacturer had reservations dating back to 1970s about paraquat but regulator says tighter controls, including phasing out backpack sprayers, can protect workers.

Beginning in July 2026 BPA will no longer be permitted in EU food packaging; the industrial chemical is known to interfere with the human hormonal system.

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority concludes its nearly 30-year review of the controversial but popular herbicide. 

As the federal government continues to water down PFAS protections, states have an opportunity to help their residents — but only if they avoid certain pitfalls and loopholes.

In a court filing backing Elon Musk’s AI company, the Trump administration said the federal government can stop Americans from suing over air pollution.

Development might lead to phaseout of chemicals that release trifluoroacetic acid and puts substantial commercial interests at risk.

About 80% of 115 products tested show levels of PFAS that comply with rules — but some firms still exceeding limits.

State officials hope beekeepers and pesticide users can communicate better with FieldWatch. But beekeepers say challenges remain.

Advocates for environmental and human health protections are seeking to challenge a decision by U.S. regulators that they say will allow the continued use of atrazine, a commonly used herbicide linked to cancer and other health problems.

Massachusetts lawmakers are again considering sweeping bills to ban toxic PFAS chemicals in food packaging, cookware, firefighting foam, and other products.