Groups To Challenge Feds' Refusal To Limit Perchlorate In Drinking Water

Oakland, CA - Environmental advocates plan to sue the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over its refusal to set limits for perchlorate in drinking water. Perchlorate, a primary ingredient in rocket fuel, munitions, and explosives, has been linked to thyroid problems in pregnant women, newborns and young children nationwide. The EPA formally announced today that it will not issue a drinking water standard for the chemical, which has contaminated drinking water in at least 26 states. EPA's decision represents a victory for the Department of Defense and military contractors, which for years have pressured EPA not to regulate perchlorate and other chemicals associated with weapons manufacturing. Responding to the announcement, the nonprofit environmental law firm Earthjustice said it plans to challenge any final... [read full story]