Proposed rule · 2026-10086

Extending the Compliance Deadline for the PFOA and PFOS Maximum Contaminant Levels

In this proposed rulemaking, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposes a federal exemption, pursuant to Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) 1416(f) and 1450(a)(1), that will extend the dates of compliance with the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) from April 26, 2029, to April 26, 2031, for those systems that submit a request. The Agency requests comment on this proposal, including the mechanisms through which the MCL compliance deadlines for PFOA and PFOS can be exempted, and has identified specific areas where public input will be helpful for the EPA in developing the final rule. In addition to seeking written input, the EPA will be holding a public hearing on July 7, 2026.