PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s because of their useful properties for example; in nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, some firefighting foams, and products that resist grease, water, and oil.

Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the standards for drinking water quality and monitors states, local authorities, and water suppliers who enforce those standards. PFAS is currently unregulated by the EPA. The EPA is looking more particularly in monitoring two specific types of PFAS components: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), which can be harmful to health. EPA collects data by requiring the potable utility providers to collect samples and data via the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR), every five (5) years. The current fifth UCMR (UCMR 5) includes testing for 29 PFAS constituents, which will be conducted by the City of Coconut Creek by the end of calendar year 2023. EPA is looking to determine the presence of PFAS and its effects and will make future necessary changes to the regulations, which each utility provider will have to abide by.

UCMR5 information can be found in the fact sheet linked below:

• The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) Program Overview Fact Sheet
  

The City of Coconut Creek purchases water directly from Broward County and the water is tested regularly and meets or exceeds all current federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Broward County, being the City of Coconut Creek's potable water provider, recently tested the water and provided the following information on their website regarding PFAS:

• Broward County PFAs Information
• Broward County Water and Wastewater Services Homepage

For Federal information on the subject, you may visit the EPA’s webpage below:

• United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) PFAs Homepage

The City of Coconut Creek is following the proposed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation changes regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) closely and will work with Broward County directly regarding any drinking water rule changes.