Maine Adopts More Stringent Standard for PFAS in Drinking Water
July 15, 2025
Maine has passed a new state law to significantly lower the allowable concentration of PFAS in drinking water, setting a stricter limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) by 2027 to align with the federal standard. The current state threshold is 20 ppt. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Dan Shagoury of Hallowell, acknowledges that although the new limit is aggressive, it reflects the best measurable minimum with current technology. Shagoury emphasized that establishing a state-level standard offers more control and stability, especially if federal guidelines change in the future.
PFAS contamination first drew statewide attention in Maine in 2016 when it was discovered in a dairy farm’s milk supply. Since then, over 100 farms have reported some level of PFAS contamination, and the chemicals have also been found in private wells and public water systems across the state.
In response, some local water districts, such as those in Hallowell and Augusta, are already taking action. Hallowell has begun offering free PFAS-free water while working on long-term solutions, and Augusta shut down a contaminated water facility last fall. The city is now planning a new filtration system to reduce PFAS levels as close to zero as possible. Officials and health experts agree that filtering these chemicals out of drinking water is crucial to protecting public health and restoring trust in the state’s water supply.
For additional information, see the original article.
