The City of Tustin has implemented a new state-funded water treatment system to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” from its drinking water. This development comes as the federal government considers relaxing regulations on these chemicals.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the initiative, highlighting California’s commitment to ensuring clean drinking water for its communities. “I’m proud to share the City of Tustin will now receive drinking water clean of ‘forever chemicals’ that have been associated with negative health impacts,” Newsom stated.
PFAS are synthetic compounds used in various commercial and industrial applications. They persist in the environment and can accumulate in human bodies, potentially increasing cancer risk and causing other health issues. State Water Board Chair E. Joaquin Esquivel noted, “PFAS have only been recognized as a threat to public health relatively recently,” emphasizing the board’s swift action in supporting projects like Tustin’s.
Since 2022, California has secured $269 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for its Drinking Water State Revolving Fund allocation. The newly unveiled $29.5 million treatment system received $10 million from this fund, supplemented by an additional $11.5 million in federal funding.
OCWD President Denis R. Bilodeau expressed gratitude for the support: “We are grateful to the State Water Board for this grant to support a new PFAS treatment facility in Tustin.” He added that OCWD is actively addressing PFAS issues by collaborating with local water retailers.
Tustin’s system is one of seven initiatives led by OCWD targeting PFAS contamination in Orange County’s drinking water supply, supported by $28.5 million from the State Revolving Fund across six other projects.
Beyond financial assistance, efforts include statewide investigations into PFAS presence and groundwater assessments conducted over several years by relevant authorities. These efforts resulted in protective health advisories setting response levels and notification standards for four types of PFAS. Last year, testing expanded to nearly 4,000 wells in disadvantaged communities to map contamination and inform treatment strategies.
