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New EPA regulations would clean Memphis drinking water but could be costly for MLGW customers

Even with federal grant money, the process could cost MLGW billions of dollars.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — On April 10th, the federal government announced new regulations to limit the amount of “forever chemicals” that can be found in drinking water — chemicals that have been linked to deadly illnesses, including cancer.  

In Tennessee, it is now up to utility companies to test drinking water and decontaminate it if necessary. In the Bluff City, that task falls to Memphis Light Gas and Water. 

“This is really a positive step forward to reducing potential for cancer and really bad health issues for Memphians,” said Sarah Houston, executive director for water advocacy group "Protect Our Aquifer." 

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that it will cost public water systems about $1.5 billion a year to make these changes. Still, the federal government has made $9 billion available to aid communities with these forever chemicals in their drinking water. 

“Protect Our Aquifer is asking that MLGW really get in line fast for federal funding because under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there is a huge bucket of money to help comply with these new standards,” Houston said.   

Still, Houston and other MLGW customers are concerned they may still end up footing some of the bill. 

“If they decided to clean up the water, we’re going to pay for it,” said Memphis resident Barbara Banks. “The tax payers are going to pay for it.” 

Fellow MLGW customer Michael Brown would also like to know what exactly he would be paying for. 

“Where is the money going? What kind of machinery, what kind of resources [would be used],” he asked. “Is it creating jobs?”

When asked about their plans, MLGW sent ABC24 the following statement: 

“MLGW currently meets or exceeds drinking water standards established by the Tennessee Department of Energy and Conservation (TDEC). MLGW is closely following PFAS regulations and updates. Once TDEC establishes sampling frequency, MLGW will perform the required treatment and testing.”

Houston says they have found “forever chemicals” in the groundwater (but not the drinking water) around the Millington Naval Base, the Memphis Airport and the site of the former defense depot. 

MLGW followed up with us Thursday, confirming no chemicals have been found in the city's drinking water.

MLGW has until 2027 to complete the testing and until 2029 to decontaminate the water. 

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