A Policy Analysis of PFAS Regulations in Maine and the US Federal Government
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53558/wsmtdy02Keywords:
PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, PFOS, governance, regulation, environmental justice, Environmental justice, PFASAbstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination has become a prevalent problem due to their widespread accumulation in the environment and concerns over their public health implications. The US federal government has had a fragmented response to PFAS contamination; however, some states have adopted multifaceted policy approaches. The state of Maine has implemented several such interventions including education and outreach, labeling and registry requirements, prosecution, prohibitions, victim support, and remediation. We propose that Maine is at the leading edge of regulation of PFAS compounds with first-of-their-kind action thresholds in beef, dairy, and eggs as well as bans on spreading agricultural sludge. We summarize Maine’s existing regulatory landscape and articulate an integrated policy framework intended to generate improved environmental and human health outcomes. Since contamination does not recognize state lines; the nation needs protective, comprehensive, and consistent polices to effectively eliminate PFAS pollution and remediate the widespread contamination.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Edward Nachamie, Rachel Schattman , Lindsey Pollard (Author)
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