CHANGING COURSE ON PERCHLORATE

Abstract

THE ENVIRONMENTAL Protection Agency will set a national limit for the amount of perchlorate—a component of rocket fuel—and of several volatile organic compounds allowed in drinking water, agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson announced last week. EPA’s decision on perchlorate reverses a policy of the George W. Bush Administration not to regulate it. The substance is used in solid rocket fuel, flares, and fireworks, and it occurs naturally in some areas. The conclusion to regulate perchlorate is “based on extensive review of the best available science and the health needs of the American people,” Jackson said. Perchlorate interferes with thyroid metabolism. This can cause damage to the developing nervous systems of babies and young children. Between 5 million and 17 million Americans across 26 states may be exposed to perchlorate in their drinking water, according to EPA. A national drinking water standard for the chemical may lead to sizable cleanup liability for the Defense Department, ...