The State of Illinois has proposed new law to address the threat presented by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) known as “forever chemicals”. These compounds are highly stable in the environment and can be detected even at extremely low concentrations (parts per trillion). They have been used in many areas because of their unique physical and chemical properties, and are commonly found in cleaning products, water-resistant clothing, Nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, grease-proof papers, fast food containers, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers.
As of January 1, 2022, the law prohibits the manufacture, sale, distribution for sale, and distribution for use of Class B firefighting foam containing PFAS. In addition, the state has proposed a rule to set groundwater quality standards for five chemicals containing PFAS.
This groundwater standard by the State of Illinois is much stricter than the health based standard currently published by the US EPA. This state action will lead to enforcement and cleanup actions at sites with measurable levels of PFAS in groundwater.
The term “PFAS” refers to a class of chemicals found in industrial and consumer products that are known to remain in the body for an extended period of time. Federal and state environmental agencies set the cleanup targets for soil and groundwater.
Our compliance specialists at ComplianceXL are available to assist you in obtaining the data you need to determine which of your products are subject to the EPA’s final ruling on long-chain PFAS in surface coatings. Our supplier engagement team will assist you in gathering and verifying necessary compliance documentation so you can stay up-to-date on EPA’s regulatory compliance requirements across the country. Our regulatory expertise also enables us to help you keep up with regulatory priorities as they develop and evolve under any global regulation.
