PFAS Frequently Asked Questions

What are Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS)?

PFAS are a large and diverse group of chemicals used in many commercial applications due to their unique properties, such as resistance to high and low temperatures, resistance to degradation, and nonstick characteristics. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily and can stay in the human body for a long time, which could lead to negative health effects.

What are the new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines for PFAS levels in public water systems?

The EPA’s finalized National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) establishes new, lower legal limits for six PFAS that may be present in public water distribution systems.

What is the timeline for meeting the new requirements?

The EPA’s new regulations provide a five-year window for public water distribution systems to reach full compliance. FKAA is working to comply well ahead of the EPA’s timetable by monitoring for PFAS, notifying the public of PFAS levels, and evaluating how best to reduce PFAS levels.

What is FKAA doing to meet the new requirements? 

• FKAA’s strategy to reduce PFAS levels in the water distribution system includes moving $100 million from its Capital Improvement Plan to fund PFAS-related mitigation strategies.
• In April 2024, a third-party testing lab will conduct 15 random studies at the tap to measure the PFAS levels in the water, and our water treatment plant is being evaluated to determine what upgrades are needed.
• Due to the unique chemical properties of PFAS and the challenges to remove them from the water supply, FKAA is consulting with engineers on how to alter the existing water filtration systems to reduce PFAS to non-detectable levels.
• FKAA has also engaged in litigation against outside parties responsible for the PFAS chemicals in the water supply. 

Does my water meet the EPA's current requirements?

Yes. FKAA has remained in compliance with all PFAS regulations and will continue to comply       with all PFAS limits established by the EPA.

What levels are in my water?

FKAA’s most current test results required under the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) for the EPA for the six PFAS referenced by the EPA are currently complaint. They are listed below with the requirements we must meet in 2029. 

*Five-year window to meet new MCL (2029)

Key of Terms

HA: Health Advisory 

HFPO-DA: Hexafluoropropylene Oxide Dimer Acid

MCL: Maximum Contaminant Level

MCLG: Maximum Contaminant Level Goal

ND: Not Detected

PFAS: Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances

PFOA: Perfluorooctanoic Acid

PFOS: Perfluorooctyl Sulfonate

PFNA: Perfluorononanoic Acid

PFHxS: Perfluorohexanesulfonic Acid

Where can I learn more about PFAS and the EPA’s new regulation?

Click here to read the EPA’s Fact Sheet: PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation.