PFAS

The City of Bloomington Utilities will continue testing for PFAS in the wake of a new regulation from the EPA.

The move is in sharp contrast to state lawmakers’ attempts earlier this year to ensure manufacturers can use most PFAS substances.

The Environmental Working Group found high levels of PFAS in baby products like crib mattresses. Without more guidance from the federal government, consumers often have to rely on groups like this to know what products do and do not contain PFAS.

Non-stick cooking pans, parchment paper, dental floss, rain boots and carpet are all products that could contain toxic PFAS.

It’s unclear if a bill to change the definition of toxic PFAS in Indiana will move forward. It was stalled in a Senate committee on Monday.

PFAS are used to make a variety of nonstick, waterproof and stain-resistant products. Among other things, exposure to the chemicals has been linked to kidney cancer, problems with the immune system and developmental issues in children.

Indiana manufacturers want to continue to use certain types of toxic PFAS. A state House bill, HB 1399, aims to change the definition of PFAS under Indiana law to exclude the specific chemicals they want to use.

State legislators passed two laws aimed at protecting firefighters from toxic PFAS this year.

Purdue University researchers are studying how toxic PFAS could affect aquatic life in the most contaminated areas.

There are 30 drinking water utilities in Indiana with toxic PFAS in their treated water at levels that are above federal health guidelines.