BOSTON – The federal government and EPA announcement to lower acceptable limit of PFAS chemicals, also known as "forever chemicals," in food and water, is an action that should have taken place years ago, Senator Michael Moore (D-Worcester) said. 

“We've got people who are consuming food that has it in the containers, dental floss, cosmetic products,” he said. “Look, I'm glad the federal government is getting more stringent on this. And I'm happy that Massachusetts is now going to have to comply with this, these new requirements. But, you know, I hate to say it should've been done years ago.”

PFAS are used to make things like nonstick cooking pans and stain-resistant clothing. They have been linked to serious health problems. 

The chemicals are found in the drinking water of nearly half of all Americans, according to a study done by the U.S. Department of the Interior. According to the EPA, the known health risks associated with them include several cancers, decreased fertility, developmental delays in children and a decrease in the efficacy of vaccines.  

“You know, we're always looking to blame illnesses on vaccines or other types of exposure. If we got one chemical here that's has 10 different variations,” said Moore. “We're all exposed to that, we don't know the impact of right now. We're just identifying this piece as this one form."

Moore has introduced legislation and been a part of a lawsuit against manufacturers that use the chemicals in protective gear for emergency responders. Because the forever chemicals never leave you, more than 90% of people can be found with PFAS in their blood. 

“I'm hoping, I'm hoping that this is going to bring a lot of more protections to the health and safety of our of our people,” Moore said.

This will be costly for both the state and federal government because the chemicals are so common. To help local cities and towns, the lawsuit would hold manufacturers accountable.