EPAProposed Rule
National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for Perchlorate
HealthcareEnvironment
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Summary
The EPA is proposing a new rule to limit perchlorate, a chemical found in some drinking water supplies that can harm thyroid function and child development. This regulation would set a maximum safe level for perchlorate in public drinking water systems across the United States.
Key Points
- 1Sets a legal limit on perchlorate in drinking water to protect public health, especially children and pregnant women whose thyroid function is more sensitive to this chemical
- 2Affects public water systems that serve millions of Americans, requiring them to test for perchlorate and treat water if levels are too high
- 3Perchlorate comes from industrial sources, old military sites, and some fertilizers, and can contaminate groundwater and drinking water supplies
- 4Water utilities will need to implement testing and treatment measures, which may increase water treatment costs
- 5This is a proposed rule, meaning the EPA is seeking public feedback before making a final decision
Impact Assessment
If you are a Consumer, this means your public water system will need to test for and limit perchlorate contamination to protect your thyroid function and your children's development.
Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope
National
Compliance Cost
Significant
Who is Affected
ConsumersHealthcare ProvidersState GovernmentsManufacturers
Key Dates
Published
January 6, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Authorized By
Amends CFR Sections
40 CFR Part 141
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (EPA_FRDOC_0001)
EPATransportation
Air Quality State Implementation Plans; Approvals and Promulgations: California; Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program
EPAEnvironment
Air Quality State Implementation Plans; Approvals and Promulgations: Kentucky; Emissions Inventory and Nonattainment New Source Review for the Henderson-Webster Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Area
EPAEnvironment
State Implementation Plan: Utah; Northern Wasatch Front; 2015 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area Boundary Expansion and Applicability of Certain Clean Air Act Requirements
EPAEnvironment
State Implementation Plan: Due Date for the Regional Haze Third Implementation Period
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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