EPA Rescinds 2019 PFAS Groundwater Memo

EPA has published a Notice of Rescinded Guidance for its 2019 memorandum “Interim Recommendations to Address Groundwater Contaminated with Perfluorooctanoic Acid and Perfluorooctanesulfonate.” EPA rescinded the memo because it no longer reflects the best, currently available science. The rescission will allow CERCLA and RCRA site managers to investigate contaminated groundwater at levels below the previous screening level of 40 ppt and preliminary remediation goal of 70 ppt for PFOA and PFOS in sources (or potential sources) of drinking water.

EPA suggests that site managers use existing processes or relevant and appropriate requirements (ARARs), such as state drinking water Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), if available. If not available or protective, EPA recommends they use the Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund (RAGS) to screen for PFOA and PFOS, develop risk-based preliminary remediation goals and establish final cleanup levels. EPA has also created Regional Screening Levels for certain PFAS, and may use EPA’s drinking water MCL for PFOA and PFOS when finalized as potential ARARs. For more information, visit the EPA website.