EPA Proposes New Regulations on Rocket Fuel Ingredient

For the first time, the Environmental Protection Agency is developing new drinking-water regulations for a toxic rocket-fuel ingredient found in 26 states, including Texas, the Obama administration announced today.

The agency will control drinking water for levels of the chemical perchlorate — used to make rocket fuel, fireworks and explosives — which is associated with thyroid problems in children and pregnant women.

California has the most water supplies affected by perchlorate, but many in Texas are also affected, according to Associated Press reports.

The EPA will propose a formal rule on regulating perchlorate, and according to a press release, the agency will take input from stakeholders and public comment on any formal rule.

EPA officials in Dallas were not available for comment because of the harsh weather today.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality already monitors perchlorate in drinking water, said spokeswoman Andrea Morrow.

“As to what the new rules will be and how that will change, I can’t tell you,” she said.