What is the status of PFAS regulations in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is considering aligning the state's PFAS drinking water standards with 2024 federal limits, but the federal rules are currently being contested in court.

How much could it cost Wisconsin to implement stricter PFAS limits?

The WDNR estimates the higher standards may cost water utilities and businesses $26.6 million in the first year of implementation.

What are the "forever chemicals" and why are they a concern?

PFAS, nicknamed "forever chemicals," are a class of synthetic compounds that persist in the environment and human body, potentially posing generational health risks.

Home / Environment / Wisconsin Wrestles with PFAS Limits as Federal Rules Face Challenges

Wisconsin Wrestles with PFAS Limits as Federal Rules Face Challenges

4 Nov

•

Summary

Wisconsin considering aligning state PFAS limits with 2024 federal standards
Federal standards being contested in court by water utilities and chemical companies
Potential $26.6 million cost for Wisconsin to implement stricter PFAS limits

Wisconsin Wrestles with PFAS Limits as Federal Rules Face Challenges

As of November 4th, 2025, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) is considering raising the state's standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in public drinking water to align with federal limits set to take effect in 2024. However, these federal standards are currently being contested in court, and water utilities and chemical companies argue this is grounds to oppose state-level adoption of more stringent guidelines.

Earlier this month, the WDNR held a public hearing to discuss establishing statewide drinking water standards, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). The state is weighing whether to match the EPA's 2024 federal MCLs, which regulate six common PFAS. Yet, the EPA has since filed a motion to essentially rescind portions of these standards, creating uncertainty around the future federal regulations.