NC S443

Commission for Public Health must commence rulemaking by October 15, 2021 to establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for probable or known carcinogens and toxic chemicals, with mandatory MCLs for PFAS, PFOA, PFOS, hexavalent chromium, and 1,4-Dioxane.

Commission shall consider establishing MCLs for any other contaminants where at least two other states have already set MCLs or issued guidance.

When establishing MCLs, the Commission must review standards from other states, EPA guidance, peer-reviewed science, and ensure protections for vulnerable populations including pregnant and nursing mothers, infants, and children, without exceeding EPA standards.

Commission for Public Health shall conduct annual reviews of latest peer-reviewed science and undertake additional rulemaking as necessary to establish or revise MCLs for contaminants posing substantial threats to public health.

Six million dollars ($6,000,000) in recurring funds are appropriated to the Department of Health and Human Services for fiscal year 2021-2022, with authority to establish up to 37 full-time equivalent positions; act becomes effective July 1, 2021.