Since June 2003, 3M has used PFBS as a replacement for the persistent, toxic, and bioaccumulative compound perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in its Scotchgard stain repellents.

[7] In November 2017, the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy released soil and water standards for three PFAS including PFBS to the British Columbia Contaminated Sites Regulation.

[6] In April 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) for six PFAS compounds, specifying a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 2000 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFBS and a "hazard index" limit on mixtures of PFBS, PFHxS, PFNA and HFPO-DA.

[9][10] A few states have proposed or implemented regulations on PFBS in drinking watering either as contamination standards, guidance or health advisories.

[11] In 2020, Michigan adopted drinking water standards for 5 previously unregulated PFAS compounds, including PFBS which has a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 420 parts per trillion (ppt).