Public health advocates worry that Donald Trump could unravel federal clean water efforts, including restrictions on lead pipes and chemicals known as PFAS.

Summary

Concerns mount over how a Trump administration could handle clean water policies, including PFAS (“forever chemicals”) regulation and lead pipe replacement.

PFAS, linked to cancer and other health risks, contaminate much of the U.S. water supply.

Biden’s administration mandated utilities to reduce PFAS levels and replace lead pipes, with billions in federal funding. Trump’s team may delay or weaken these efforts, influenced by industry lobbying and Project 2025’s deregulatory goals.

Critics warn such rollbacks could worsen public health risks and increase long-term costs, despite bipartisan support for clean water protections.

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