I know we're all supposed to be drinking tap water and loving it, but sometimes it's just not that appealing. Like on days when you read news like this.

The EPA has decided that there is no need to get rid of perchlorate in drinking water. Perchlorate is a toxic rocket fuel ingredient that has been found in at least 395 sites in 35 states, and at high enough levels to interfere with thyroid function and to pose risk to babies and fetuses. The EPA stated that mandating a perchlorate cleanup would not result in a meaningful "health risk reduction for persons served by public-water systems." This conclusion has been denounced by Democrats and environmentalists, who accuse the EPA of caving to the Pentagon. Most perchlorate contamination comes from defense and aerospace activities.

"This is a widespead contamination problem, and to see the Bush EPA just walk away is shocking, " said Barbara Boxer, D-Calif, in an AP article. The contamination is particularly widespread in California and the Southwest.

If you live in an area affected by perchlorate, or are concerned about it in general, be aware that many water filters do not filter it out. According to the National Resource Defense Council, you'll need a reverse osmosis system to get rid of this nasty chemical.