NH DES Seeks To Raise PFAS Water Standards

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services filed a new rule-making proposal on Friday to establish "maximum contaminant levels" for per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances in drinking water in the state. The request has been made to ensure "greater protection of public health" when it comes to drinking water in New Hampshire. The proposed standards – dropping four different PFASs to between 11 and 18 parts per trillion – will be some of the strictest levels in the nation.

Jim Martin, the public information officer for the NH DES, stated that the department used the "most recent and best science" available to determine protective levels for "the most sensitive populations," during a lifetime of exposure. All non-transient public water systems serving 25 people at least 60 days a year must comply with the new water quality standards, if approved.

The change comes a month after the state filed contamination lawsuits against a number of chemical and fire-retardant companies.

The department came to the maximum levels by considering "the extent to which the contaminants are found in New Hampshire, the ability to detect them in public water systems, the ability to remove the contaminant from drinking water, and the costs and benefits to affected parties that will result from establishing the standard, and then develop a MCL for each compound that is protective of the most sensitive population at all life stages," Martin stated.

The New Hampshire Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules will consider the request at its meeting on July 18. The meeting will be held at 9 a.m. in the NH DES Auditorium at 29 Hazen Drive.

To read the full proposal and make public comments on the NH DES website.

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