Scientists Completed a Toxicity Report on This Forever Chemical. The EPA Hasnt Released It.

Published: Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 9:00 am

EPA Report on "Forever Chemical" PFNA Delayed, Raising Concerns

A recently completed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report on the toxicity of the "forever chemical" PFNA, found in the drinking water of approximately 26 million people, has been delayed, sparking concerns among scientists and environmental advocates. The report, finalized in mid-April, details PFNA's harmful effects, including lower birth weights, liver damage, and adverse impacts on the male reproductive system. The assessment also calculates safe exposure levels, crucial for setting cleanup standards and removing PFNA from drinking water.

The delay is particularly concerning given the EPA's recent announcement to reconsider limits on PFNA and other "forever chemicals" in drinking water, set by the previous administration. Some experts suggest the delay may be politically motivated, as the report's findings could strengthen the case for maintaining or strengthening existing regulations.

PFNA, a component of firefighting foam and used in manufacturing, has been found in water sources across 28 states. The EPA struck an agreement with eight companies to phase out PFNA nearly two decades ago. The chemical's persistence in the environment and its presence in various sources, including food, air, and even breast milk, have raised significant health concerns.

The report's findings, based on five years of research, also suggest potential links between PFNA and immune problems, thyroid effects, and harm to the developing brain. The American Chemistry Council has disputed some of the report's findings.

The delay of the PFNA report raises broader questions about the future of the EPA's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program, which conducted the assessment. IRIS, created to provide independent scientific information on pollutants, has faced challenges, including industry lobbying and potential political interference. The program has seen significant staff reductions in recent years, and its future is uncertain.

BNN's Perspective: The delay of the PFNA report is troubling. While the EPA has stated its commitment to addressing "forever chemicals," the timing of the delay, coupled with the agency's actions to reconsider existing regulations, raises legitimate questions about the prioritization of public health versus industry interests. Transparency and the timely release of scientific findings are essential for informed decision-making and protecting the public from potential health risks.

Keywords: PFNA, forever chemicals, EPA, drinking water, toxicity, health risks, IRIS, environmental regulations, pollution, scientific report, Trump administration, industry lobbying.

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