EPA Pauses Decisions on 'Forever Chemicals'

Federal agency faces pressure from advocates and industry over PFAS regulation

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:00pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph showing the intricate, ghostly molecular structure of a PFAS chemical compound, conceptually illustrating the complex nature of regulating these persistent and potentially harmful substances.An X-ray view of the complex molecular structure of PFAS 'forever chemicals,' which have become a major regulatory challenge for the EPA.Washington Today

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has paused decisions on uses for dozens of 'forever chemicals,' also known as PFAS. The delay includes proposed changes regarding how several of these chemicals can be used. PFAS are typically used in products like nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and electronics, and have been linked to cancer, immune system problems, and infertility. The delay comes as federal officials face pressure from various groups over how to handle these chemicals, with some health advocates wanting stricter limits and others warning that delays could disrupt product development and production.

Why it matters

PFAS chemicals are a major environmental and public health concern, as they are highly persistent in the environment and have been linked to serious health issues. The EPA's decision to pause decisions on PFAS uses reflects the complex and contentious nature of regulating these 'forever chemicals,' with various stakeholders pushing for different approaches.

The details

The EPA has paused decisions on uses for dozens of PFAS chemicals, including proposed changes regarding how several of these chemicals can be used. PFAS are typically used in products like nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and electronics, and are called 'forever chemicals' because they break down very slowly and can build up in the environment and the human body. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to cancer, immune system problems, and infertility.

  • The EPA has paused decisions on PFAS uses in April 2026.

The players

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The federal agency responsible for regulating and enforcing environmental protection laws, including the use of PFAS chemicals.

Kimberly White

Vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs for the American Chemistry Council, a lobbying group that has warned that delays in approving PFAS uses could disrupt product development and production.

Joanna Slaney

Vice president for political and government affairs at the Environmental Defense Fund, an environmental advocacy group that says stronger oversight is needed for PFAS chemicals.

Lee Zeldin

EPA administrator who has been working to reduce the agency's backlog of chemical reviews, including for PFAS chemicals.

Mike Bastasch

EPA spokesperson who stated that the agency's regulatory decisions on PFAS are guided by science, the law, and the president's agenda.

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What they’re saying

“Prolonged delays in the approval process slows innovation, disrupts supply chains and hinders the development of new products that are critical to a wide range of industries, including those supporting health, energy and advanced manufacturing.”

— Kimberly White, Vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs, American Chemistry Council

“Most Americans want the same thing: more oversight and transparency around toxic chemicals. PFAS are toxic, even at very low levels, and they're linked to cancers, liver damage and health problems for children.”

— Joanna Slaney, Vice president for political and government affairs, Environmental Defense Fund

“All regulatory decisions, from rules to chemical reviews, are guided by the best available science, the law, and President Trump's agenda.”

— Mike Bastasch, EPA spokesperson

What’s next

The EPA has stated it is focused on making decisions that support the nation's health, and has pointed to recent actions on PFAS including new funding and research efforts aimed at reducing exposure in drinking water. However, the agency's decision to pause approvals for PFAS uses has drawn criticism from both industry groups and environmental advocates, suggesting further debate and action on PFAS regulation is likely to come.

The takeaway

The EPA's pause on PFAS decisions highlights the complex and contentious nature of regulating these 'forever chemicals.' While the agency says it is guided by science and public health, it faces pressure from both industry groups concerned about disruptions and environmental advocates calling for stricter oversight. The outcome of this regulatory process will have significant implications for public health and the future use of PFAS chemicals.