On October 9, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took another big step in its fight against PFAS, often called "forever chemicals." The EPA issued a fifth Test Order under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), requiring five major companies to test a specific type of PFAS called 6:2 fluorotelomer acrylate (6:2 FTAc). This is the latest action taken under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap, which outlines steps to research, restrict, and remediate these harmful chemicals..
These companies, including The Chemours Company, Daikin America, Sumitomo Corporation, and DuPont, must now examine how this chemical affects human health and the environment.
The results will not only inform the EPA’s decision-making about 6:2 FTAc but also provide insight into the effects of other structurally similar PFAS chemicals. This could shape future regulatory actions and potentially lead to broader restrictions on PFAS production and use.
What Is 6:2 FTAc and Why Does It Matter?
6:2 FTAc is a fluorinated acrylate used to create water-, stain-, and grease-resistant coatings on plastics, textiles, and paper. Structurally similar to other PFAS, early animal studies have shown it may harm:
- Liver and kidney function
- Blood cell development
- Immune system health
- Potentially increases cancer risk
Since 6:2 FTAc is highly persistent and mobile, it has been detected in groundwater and soil near manufacturing facilities.
What Are PFAS, and Why Are They Dangerous?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals used in thousands of consumer and industrial products, including:
- Non-stick cookware
- Food packaging
- Water-resistant clothing
- AFFF firefighting foam
- Fire gear worn by firefighters and military personnel
They are called "forever chemicals" because they don’t break down easily and can remain in our environment and bodies for a very long time. Over time, even small amounts of PFAS exposure can lead to serious health problems According to the CDC on 'How PFAS Impacts Your Health', PFAS exposure has been linked to:
- Increases in cholesterol levels (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFDA).
- Lower antibody response to some vaccines (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFDA).
- Changes in liver enzymes (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS).
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia (PFOA, PFOS).
- Small decreases in birth weight (PFOA, PFOS).
- Kidney and testicular cancer (PFOA).
- Thyroid Disease
- Immune Suppression
- And More
A 2023 study by the U.S. Geological Survey found that 45% of U.S. tap water samples contained at least one PFAS chemical.
What Does The PFAS EPA Order Mean?
PFAS contamination has been a growing public health concern for years, with these chemicals found in water supplies, soil, and even in human blood. They are widely referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down and can persist in the environment for decades.
The EPA’s order requires companies to generate new data or submit existing studies on:
- Environmental persistence
- Toxicity and bioaccumulation
- Human exposure pathways
This helps regulators understand the risks not only of 6:2 FTAc, but also similar fluorinated compounds. The results will influence future risk assessments and regulations — potentially leading to product bans or cleanup mandates.
What’s Next for PFAS Testing and Regulation?
This move is part of the EPA’s National PFAS Testing Strategy — a science-first approach that prioritizes the most widely used and potentially harmful PFAS for study.
By 2026, the EPA plans to:
- Finalize drinking water standards for PFOA, PFOS
- Expand Superfund site designations
- Require public disclosure from PFAS manufacturers
- Hold polluters financially accountable under the new CERCLA rules
Why Should You Care?
PFAS contamination affects millions of people across the U.S., often through drinking water or contaminated soil. These chemicals have been linked to serious illnesses, and as they build up in our bodies over time, the risks increase. The EPA’s Test Order is a step toward understanding and reducing these risks, but it’s also a reminder that PFAS still threatens many communities such as:
- Military communities
- Firefighters and first responders
- Residents near airports, factories, and landfills
Even small amounts can build up over time and lead to long-term health issues.
How The Downs Law Group Can Help
At The Downs Law Group, we represent victims of PFAS exposure — including military families, firefighters, and people living near contaminated sites. Whether you were exposed through firefighting foam, drinking water, or contaminated gear, we may be able to help!
- We offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis!
- We pursue justice against PFAS manufacturers and polluters.
Contact The Downs Law Group today for a FREE CASE REVIEW to learn more about your rights with a qualified PFAS water contamination lawyer.
By taking steps like this EPA Test Order, we are moving toward a safer future, but there’s still work to be done to protect communities from the lasting dangers of PFAS.