Rep. Priya Kapoor Challenges EPA Over Delayed PFNA Report
In a heated congressional hearing on environmental oversight, Representative Priya Kapoor (D-California) pressed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for answers regarding the delayed release of a critical report on Perfluorononanoic Acid (PFNA), a toxic “forever chemical” tied to serious health risks. The delay has raised alarms among environmental advocates, scientists, and communities already struggling with PFNA contamination in their water supplies.
What Is PFNA and Why Is It Dangerous?
PFNA is part of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family, a group of synthetic chemicals used in products like non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and firefighting foams. Known as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and human body, PFAS compounds, including PFNA, have been linked to cancer, liver damage, immune system suppression, and developmental issues in children. Despite growing evidence of these dangers, regulatory action has lagged, leaving millions of Americans at risk.
EPA’s Delayed Report Sparks Outrage
The EPA was slated to release a comprehensive report on PFNA’s health impacts and regulatory recommendations by the end of 2023. However, the agency has yet to publish the findings, citing “ongoing internal reviews” and “data validation processes.” This delay has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers and public health experts, who argue that the EPA is failing to prioritize the health and safety of affected communities.
“Every day this report is delayed is another day that families across the country are left in the dark about the risks they face,” Rep. Kapoor said during the hearing. “The EPA’s lack of urgency is unacceptable. We need transparency, accountability, and immediate action to protect public health.”
California Communities Bear the Brunt
Kapoor’s demands come as communities in her home state of California, particularly in the Central Valley, continue to report high levels of PFNA in drinking water. A recent study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that over 200 million Americans may be exposed to PFAS-contaminated water, with PFNA being one of the most prevalent and harmful compounds detected.
Allegations of Corporate Interference
Environmental advocates have echoed Kapoor’s concerns, accusing the EPA of succumbing to pressure from industry lobbyists. “The delay in releasing this report reeks of corporate interference,” said Dr. Anika Patel, a toxicologist and PFAS researcher. “The science is clear—PFNA is dangerous, and delaying action only puts more lives at risk.”
The EPA has denied accusations of external influence, stating that the delay is necessary to ensure the report’s accuracy and comprehensiveness. “We understand the urgency of this issue and are working diligently to finalize the report,” an EPA spokesperson said. “Our priority is to provide the public with reliable, science-based information to guide regulatory decisions.”
Calls for Immediate Action
Critics argue that the EPA’s cautious approach is worsening the crisis. “We don’t need perfection; we need action,” said Mark Thompson, a community organizer in Michigan, where PFNA contamination has been linked to a cluster of cancer cases. “Every day we wait, more people get sick. The EPA needs to stop dragging its feet.”
Rep. Kapoor has called for a congressional investigation into the delay and has reintroduced legislation aimed at accelerating the regulation of PFAS chemicals. The “Protect Our Water Act,” co-sponsored by several House Democrats, would mandate stricter limits on PFAS in drinking water and provide funding for clean-up efforts in affected communities.
A Matter of Life and Death
As the debate intensifies, the spotlight remains on the EPA and its commitment to addressing the PFAS crisis. For millions of Americans living with the daily reality of PFNA contamination, the delayed report is more than a bureaucratic misstep—it’s a matter of life and death.
“The EPA has a duty to protect public health,” Kapoor said. “It’s time for them to fulfill that duty and release this report without further delay. The American people deserve nothing less.”
With pressure mounting from lawmakers, advocates, and affected communities, the EPA faces a critical test of its credibility and resolve. The question now is whether the agency will rise to the occasion or continue to leave the public in the dark about one of the most pressing environmental health threats of our time.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for updates on this developing story.
