In August 2024, the division launched a stakeholder engagement process in support of a rulemaking hearing before the Water Quality Control Commission to adopt these federal rules into the Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulations (Regulation 11). Between August 2024 and January 2025, we held a total of seven stakeholder meetings and two workgroup meetings in support of the stakeholder process. We appreciate the significant contributions from water providers, environmental organizations, and members of the public. This collaboration is essential for developing effective and sustainable regulations that address the specific needs of our state.
Through the stakeholder process, we have:
- Developed Draft Regulatory Language: The feedback received from stakeholders has directly informed the development of draft language for the upcoming PFAS Rule and CCR Rule Revisions.
- Created PFAS Rule Resources: To aid water providers in navigating the complex requirements, we have developed a PFAS Rule page with guidance and a frequently asked questions document, an initial monitoring compliance check worksheet to help understand the timing requirements for monitoring, and are in the process of developing tools to allow submission of UCMR 5 PFAS data for use in meeting initial monitoring requirements.
- Updated CCR Content: While most content changes under the CCR Rule Revisions are not required until 2027, there are a few changes to CCRs distributed in 2025 required under the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. The division has updated CCR draft templates for 2025 to capture the language and content required to be included in CCRs.
Looking ahead, the next major milestone is the rulemaking process before the commission. This is a crucial stage where the commission will review the draft regulations, consider public input, and ultimately make a decision on whether to adopt these rules into Regulation 11.
Important Note: There has been some recent developments at the federal level. EPA has been granted abeyances by the DC Circuit Court concerning lawsuits regarding the federal PFAS Rule. These abeyances were granted to allow the new administration time to review the rule and the plaintiff’s petition to the Court. On May 14, 2025, EPA announced that it was considering delaying compliance with the PFAS standards but no specific mention was made about the testing requirements. We are actively monitoring this situation and will provide updates as they become available. None of this impacts the CCR rule.
We recognize that navigating these regulations can be complex. Therefore, we are committed to keeping you informed throughout the process. We will provide updates on the rulemaking process and opportunities for public comment.
How to Stay Informed:
- Visit the Division's Engagement Website and sign up for notifications
- Attend Commission Meetings: Commission meetings are open to the public, and your participation is encouraged. For more information about upcoming meetings and hearings please visit the commission's website.
We believe that everyone plays a vital role in shaping water policy. By staying engaged, we can collectively work towards ensuring clean and safe drinking water for all Coloradans.
➽ Bryan Pilson Technical, Regulatory Implementation, and Coordination Unit Manager
