TEXAS, USA — Some Central Texas water utilities are among the list of sites across the state that have exceeded the federal limit on "forever chemicals" in the water supply.
On April 10, the Biden administration implemented a limit on the amount of hazardous forever chemicals allowed to be present in public water utility systems.
Now, approximately 49 of these systems across the state of Texas have surpassed the limit, including some in San Antonio, Georgetown and Killeen, according to The Texas Tribune.
Specifically, the San Antonio Water System Castle Hills, Georgetown San Gabriel Park Water Treatment Plant and West Bell County Water Supply (Killeen) are among those on the list.
Not all water-testing data has been reported to the EPA from public water systems so it's possible these numbers could continue to grow both in Texas and nationally.
What are "forever chemicals" and why have they been limited?
Essentially, forever chemicals are another name for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, abbreviated as PFAS. These chemicals don't break down naturally and can gradually make their way through the ground into drinking water supplies.
PFAS have been linked with a variety of health problems including certain cancers, liver disease, high blood pressure and an increased risk for lower than average birth weights.
These substances can be found in everyday items like nonstick pans and packaging for food.
In total, five types of chemical substances -including types of PFAS known as PFOA and PFOS- are among those that have been limited by the EPA.
Outside of Central Texas, other state public utility systems that have reached capacity of at least one type of forever chemical include the Big Springs Water Plant, Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 119 and the Big Oaks Municipal Utility District in Katy.
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