Maine receives $68.4M for water upgrades, stopping 'forever chemicals'

Maine has received $68.4 million in federal funds to upgrade water infrastructure and reduce contamination by so-called “forever chemicals,” according to a news release Thursday.

The state will use the money to improve wastewater treatment and to prevent pollution in drinking water by lead, arsenic and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances.

Lead and arsenic are well-known dangers to human health. PFAS are a class of man-made chemicals that can bioaccumulate in bodies over time, and have been linked to cancer, thyroid disease, liver damage, decreased fertility, and hormone disruption.

The money was budgeted under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law Nov. 15. The Environmental Protection Agency awarded the funds.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, a co-author of the legislation, said in the release, “This funding represents one of the most significant investments in water infrastructure in Maine’s history, demonstrating the transformational nature of the bipartisan infrastructure package …

"Although Maine is home to some of the cleanest sources of water in the country, the increasing prevalence of pollutants like PFAS require action to keep our drinking water pure.”

U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, added, “Healthy communities need healthy water – and when Maine people turn on their shower or faucet, they shouldn’t be worried about what will come out. They should know they’re getting the clean, safe, and healthy water Maine is known for.”