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Federal prosecutors in NY and DC resign after refusing to drop Mayor Eric Adams charges; IN weighs Bitcoin bet in state investments; In rural east KY, communities find ways to boost kids early learning; and start date for MN's paid leave law is now up for debate.

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Report urges 'more stringent' look at health risks of pesticides

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Wednesday, August 28, 2024   

A new report warned about adverse health, wildlife and environmental impacts of toxic chemicals known as PFAS in states such as South Dakota.

Sometimes called "forever chemicals," they can be found in a variety of applications and industries, including pest-control products. A new regulation under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act will impose limits on the levels of PFAS allowed.

Early testing shows levels in Mount Rushmore National Memorial's drinking water are more than twice the soon-to-be federal limit. Advocacy groups are asking the Environmental Protection Agency for tougher regulations on pesticides.

Nathan Donley, environmental health science director at the Center for Biological Diversity, argued many of the pesticides are too easy to obtain and use.

"These are just regular products that you would buy in your local hardware store," Donley explained. "They're also products that you could use in agriculture, that many farmers use. These ingredients are in a lot of different products that many people can buy."

Public water systems have until 2029 to reduce high levels before they are considered in violation. The report recommended more industry transparency for all pesticide ingredients, as well as stricter federal testing and monitoring of PFAS. A coalition of chemical trade groups has called the EPA's rules under the Safe Drinking Water Act a regulatory overreach.

Donley pointed out the exposure pathways for PFAS are very similar between people and wildlife and animals are drinking from water sources where the exposure is greatest. He noted agencies such as the EPA are in place to make sure shortsighted actions by a few do not have long-term consequences for everyone.

"This really isn't the failing of individuals, it's the failing of our institutions," Donley contended. "We need to put pressure on representatives that have been elected to really put in place the protections that most of the public thinks should be in place."

Donley called PFAS a multigenerational threat, saying the true harm may only be felt in future generations. He added environmental groups have been fighting the use of persistent pollutants for a half-century but the nation is still dealing with many of them.


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