We expect clean water when we turn on the tap. But the systems delivering it are under serious stress right now. Federal agencies are fighting over "forever chemicals," and aging local pipes are snapping without warning. Suddenly, what's in your glass is a front-burner issue.
The fight over what's in your glass
Federal regulators set strict rules a few years ago to test for and treat specific PFAS chemicals in public drinking water. These substances are linked to serious kidney and immune system damage. But filtering them out on a municipal scale costs a fortune.
Now, the EPA is considering a rollback. One proposal gives water systems an extension to comply. Another might remove the testing requirement for four specific chemicals altogether. The Office of Advocacy supports the delay. They argue that small, local water systems just need more time to get their facilities up to standard.
What's happening in your state
In North Carolina, state officials are pushing back hard against the federal delay. Attorney General Jeff Jackson opposes the rollback, pointing out that 500,000 eastern residents rely entirely on the Cape Fear River for their drinking water, per the NCDOJ. On top of water quality concerns, the coast is simply out of water. Brunswick County sits in the highest tier on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale and has an active burn ban to prevent wildfires.
In Michigan, the issue is aging infrastructure. A water main break on Marion Drive in the village of Holly triggered an immediate boil water advisory this week. CBS News reports that residents have to boil tap water for cooking and brushing their teeth. You can still shower safely, as long as you're careful not to swallow anything.
The bottom line for you
- With federal testing rules in limbo, you might want to filter your own drinking water. Our environmental hazards guide helps you figure out which under-sink or fridge filters actually catch forever chemicals.
- Infrastructure fails happen fast. Keep a few gallons of bottled water in the pantry. You should also brush up on your plumbing basics so you know exactly what to do when your local utility issues an emergency notice.
- If you live in an exceptionally dry area like the Southeast, fire risk is real right now. Take a weekend to clear dead brush away from your foundation. Our North Carolina seasonal checklist has specific tips for drought-proofing your property.