17607_PMAA_Authority_June_2024

municipalauthorities.org | 51 at 4.0 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS, individually. This standard will reduce exposure from these PFAS in our drinking water to the lowest levels that are feasible for effective implementation. • For PFNA, PFHxS, and “GenX Chemicals,” EPA is setting the MCLGs and MCLs at 10 parts per trillion. • Because PFAS can often be found together in mixtures, and research shows these mixtures may have combined health impacts, EPA is also setting a limit for any mixture of two or more of the following PFAS: PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and “GenX Chemicals.” EPA is issuing this rule after reviewing extensive research and science on how PFAS affects public health, while engaging with the water sector and with state regulators to ensure effective implementation. EPA also considered 120,000 comments on the proposed rule from a wide variety of stakeholders. Background PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals,’ are prevalent in the environment. PFAS are a category of chemicals used since the 1940s to repel oil and water and resist heat, which makes them useful in everyday products such as nonstick cookware, stain resistant clothing, and firefighting foam. The science is clear that exposure to certain PFAS over a long period of time can cause cancer and other illnesses. In addition, PFAS exposure during critical life stages such as pregnancy or early childhood can also result in adverse health impacts. Across the country, PFAS contamination is impacting millions of people’s health and wellbeing. People can be exposed to PFAS through drinking water or food contaminated with PFAS, by coming into contact with products that contain PFAS, or through workplace exposures in certain industries. Since EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan announced the PFAS Strategic Roadmap in October 2021, EPA has taken action – within the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government approach – by advancing science and following the law to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and hold polluters accountable. The actions described in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap each represent important and meaningful steps to protect communities from PFAS contamination. Cumulatively, these actions will build upon one another and lead to more enduring and protective solutions. In December 2023, the EPA released its second annual report on PFAS progress. The report highlights significant accomplishments achieved under the EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. S Congratulations to Joanne Shafer , Deputy Executive Director and County Recycling Coordinator for the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority, who retired this Spring. Joanne was originally hired as a part of the recycling staff, then became Recycling Coordinator in December 1990, in 2000 she was named Deputy Executive Director/Recycling Coordinator. Over her 33-year career at the authority, Joanne managed the countywide recycling program, including curbside collection from 27,000 households, a system of over 125 drop-off sites, commercial recycling from 850 establishments and a source separated Materials Recovery Facility with a yearly capacity of 15,000 tons. Joanne was responsible for recycling public education, grant writing and the marketing of recyclable commodities from the Authority’s Materials Recovery Facilities. She also assisted with the conversion of the recycling collection vehicles to renewable natural gas. As the longest serving Recycling Coordinator in Pennsylvania, Joanne served the authority with dignity and integrity. During Joanne’s tenure, the authority was awarded the 2009 Best Local Government Program by the National Recycling Coalition. In addition, Joanne served on many boards and associations to improve recycling programs across the Commonwealth. Just a few of her most notable positions included founding member and past President of the Professional Recyclers of Pennsylvania, past Chair of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center, past Council Chair of the National Recycling Coalition, Advisory Member for the Northeast Recycling Council and a member of countless organizations including the Solid Waste Association of North America, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, PA Cleanways, DEP’s Solid Waste Advisory Committee, PA Municipal Authorities Association and a recipient of PMAA’s Extended Service Award for 30 years of service in 2023, PA Association of Environmental Educators, PA Resources Council, Clearwater Conservancy, and the United States Composting Council. She was an integral force for recycling in Pennsylvania and her legacy will live on for many years to come. According to authority Chairman Dennis Hameister, “Joanne’s been the face of recycling in Centre County for over three decades. She will certainly be missed and we wish her well in retirement.” S