PFAS Regulations in Illinois
Illinois is one of the more proactive states when it comes to addressing PFAS. In 2021, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) launched a statewide investigation, testing hundreds of community water supplies for PFAS contamination.

In 2023, Illinois finalized non-enforceable health advisory levels for several PFAS compounds, offering guidance to water systems and residents. For example:

• PFOA: 2 parts per trillion (ppt)

• PFOS: 14 ppt

These levels are similar to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s national guidelines, but Illinois officials have stated they are preparing to develop enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for PFAS in drinking water in the coming years.

Some communities, including Freeport, Rockford, and several suburban Chicago towns, have detected PFAS in local water supplies. While not all detections are above advisory levels, public health experts stress that any detectable PFAS levels should be taken seriously.

Should Residents Be Concerned?
Yes — if PFAS are detected in drinking water or private wells, residents should be concerned.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) advises that long-term consumption of water with PFAS could pose health risks, even if levels are below current advisories. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, infants, and people with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.

Residents with private wells are urged to test their water for PFAS if there is any suspicion of contamination, especially near airports, industrial sites, or fire training facilities where PFAS-based foams have historically been used.

Home water filtration systems certified for PFAS removal (like certain reverse osmosis systems) can help reduce exposure, but bottled water may be recommended for sensitive individuals in high-risk areas until permanent solutions are in place.

PFAS and Firefighting: A Hidden Risk
PFAS chemicals are a major ingredient in some firefighting foams, particularly "Aqueous Film Forming Foams" (AFFF) used to quickly extinguish fuel fires. Unfortunately, this has led to contamination of groundwater and drinking water around military bases, airports, and industrial sites.

Today, Illinois law restricts the use of PFAS-containing foams. In 2021, the state passed the "PFAS Reduction Act," which:

• Bans the use of PFAS foams in training exercises (except for limited cases where necessary)

• Requires fire departments to report any use of PFAS foams to the state

• Encourages the transition to PFAS-free alternatives

Experts agree that contaminated water should never be used for firefighting if safer alternatives are available, especially near drinking water sources. Firefighters are increasingly shifting to newer, non-PFAS foams, though complete transition will take time and investment.

The Bottom Line
PFAS are a serious environmental and health threat. While Illinois is taking steps toward stronger regulations, residents should remain vigilant, particularly if PFAS have been detected in their local water or wells. Testing, filtration, and staying informed about state and federal standards are key to minimizing risks.

The “forever chemicals” may not go away anytime soon — but with better policies and public awareness, Illinois communities can protect their health and their future.