U.S. EPA Proposes Designation of Microplastics and Pharmaceuticals as Priority Contaminant Groups in Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List

In early April 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced the inclusion of microplastics and pharmaceuticals as priority contaminant groups in the draft Sixth Contaminant Candidate List (CCL 6). This marks the first time these two categories have been officially prioritized for potential drinking water regulation, signaling a major shift in federal environmental and public health policy. The draft CCL 6 is open for a 60-day public comment period.