Water is the source of life. All living things are made up of water, and water connects all living things whether it is flowing from stream, river, pond, lake or ocean. Water is critical for life and the survival of residents in New Jersey and elsewhere; thus, individuals rely on their water source to be clean and clear of any and all harmful chemicals and contaminants. Discovering that your drinking source is contaminated is a concerning situation, as this could negatively impact your health and wellbeing.
Recently, New Jersey has taken major steps to fight against the presence of “forever chemicals” in drinking water. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection adopted strict drinking water standards when it comes to two chemicals with a known link to serious health risks. Both of the chemicals are prevalent in the groundwater located throughout the state.
The two chemicals ate perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, which are polyfluoroalkyl and perfluroalkyl substances and have been linked to cancer, immune system issues and other health problems. Now, New Jersey is one of three states that have taken steps to regulate these chemicals in drinking water.
Under these new regulations, public water systems will begin monitoring for the two chemicals. Additionally, private well owners will be required to test for these two chemicals in addition to another chemical, perfluorononanoic acid. Finally, polluted sites in the states that are currently undergoing environmental remediation will have to be tested for these contaminates. If these chemicals are present, the current site cleanup must include dealing with these chemicals as well.
Protecting your drinking water is a top priority. Thus, if it is determined that your drinking water is contaminated and the cause of current health issues, it may be possible to take legal action. A major concern in these matters is a remedy that not only seeks to clean the water from contaminates but also addresses the harms caused by the contamination.
Environmental law issues can be complex and challenging to work through. When individuals and businesses are impacted by a contaminated water source, remediation is necessary. A legal professional can help guide you through this process and aid you in understanding what rights and options you are afforded.