LOS ANGELES (AP) — California regulators voted Wednesday to establish a drinking water limit on hexavalent chromium, a toxic chemical compound made infamous by the movie “Erin Brockovich.”
The rule is the first in the nation to specifically target the heavy metal, known as chromium-6, and is expected to reduce the number of cancer and kidney disease cases from long-term ingestion, state officials say.
The proposal was unanimously passed by the State Water Resources Control Board, though it needs approval from the Office of Administrative Law to take effect.
The standard could inspire other states to adopt their own. More than 200 million Americans are estimated to have the chemical compound in their drinking water, according to an analysis of federal water testing data by the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit research and advocacy organization.
Welcome to Frankenmuth, the bizarre 'German' city that could swing the US election
EU foreign chief says Israel must respect UN court, control settler violence in the West Bank
Leclerc's win removes Monaco millstone. Ferrari boss hopeful the gap to Red Bull is closing
Digital economy expands in scale, demonstrating enormous potential
German police officer dies of wounds suffered in knife attack
Mavs rookie center Dereck Lively II leaves Game 3 of West finals after taking knee to head
Ryan Weathers throws 6 scoreless innings and Marlins beat Diamondbacks 3
NFL star announces shock retirement at just 29 after suffering a 'terrifying' blood clot
US Energy Secretary calls for more nuclear power while celebrating $35 billion Georgia reactors
Leclerc's win removes Monaco millstone. Ferrari boss hopeful the gap to Red Bull is closing
Paris Olympics: What to know and who to watch during the 3X3 basketball competition
I'm selling my $32m private island so I can enjoy my golden years