Forever Chemicals and Legal Accountability: Maine Moves Forward While EPA Stalls

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a long-awaited roadmap for addressing the threat posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” However, the lack of detail and urgency in the federal agency’s plan has left many health advocates and environmental scientists in Maine unconvinced that it will provide meaningful relief for communities already affected by PFAS contamination.

At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the deep concern Maine residents feel about these toxic substances, which have been linked to cancer, liver damage, and other serious health conditions. We believe that protecting public health requires clear, enforceable regulations and accountability for those responsible for contamination.

PFAS are synthetic chemicals used for decades in everything from nonstick cookware and waterproof clothing to firefighting foam. Their resistance to heat, oil, water, and stains made them valuable in manufacturing—but also dangerously persistent in the environment and human body. Because they break down very slowly, PFAS can accumulate over time and leach into drinking water supplies, agricultural land, and even household dust.

The EPA’s new 21-point strategy outlines broad goals such as limiting industrial discharges into waterways, expanding cleanup efforts, enhancing research, and encouraging polluters to pay for remediation. However, the plan notably lacks firm deadlines or funding commitments, and some key policy decisions—like whether to uphold stricter federal limits for PFAS in drinking water—are still pending.

In April 2023, the EPA proposed lowering the maximum allowable level of some PFAS in public water supplies to 4 parts per trillion—a significant reduction from Maine’s current standard of 20 parts per trillion. But those limits remain in limbo due to a legal challenge from water utilities concerned about the cost of compliance. The agency is expected to respond to the lawsuit later this spring, which may determine whether those stricter standards become enforceable nationwide.

While the EPA’s framework draws national headlines, Maine has already implemented some of the strongest PFAS policies in the country. In fact, Maine was the first state to require companies to report PFAS in products and has committed to phasing out non-essential uses of these chemicals by 2030.

State lawmakers are also considering a proposal to adopt the EPA’s lower limit of 4 parts per trillion regardless of whether it becomes federally mandated. This proactive approach reflects widespread concern over the health risks PFAS pose, particularly through contaminated well water—a growing problem for rural Maine households.

“We’re not waiting on Washington,” said one local environmental advocate. “Maine is taking matters into its own hands to protect our water, land, and people.”

Despite growing awareness and state-level action, many residents who have suffered exposure to PFAS-contaminated water or products are still waiting for justice. The EPA’s plan does emphasize the need for polluters—manufacturers and industrial users of PFAS—to bear financial responsibility. But critics argue the federal government must do more to ensure these companies are held legally accountable.

At Peter Thompson & Associates, we believe that communities deserve answers and restitution when dangerous chemicals enter their homes and lives. Our firm is actively monitoring developments in PFAS litigation and environmental regulations, and we are committed to standing with Maine families impacted by toxic exposure.

The fight against PFAS is far from over. While the EPA’s blueprint sets the stage for broader action, the real work will happen in courtrooms, state legislatures, and local communities across Maine. As legal advocates for public health, we support meaningful oversight, timely implementation, and strong legal remedies for victims of environmental harm.

If you or someone you love has been affected by PFAS exposure—whether through contaminated drinking water, unsafe work environments, or hazardous consumer products—Peter Thompson & Associates is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can assist in holding those responsible accountable.