The Wisconsin state Assembly approved a bill aimed at addressing pollution from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as forever chemicals. These man-made chemicals have been linked to various health issues and are found in products like cookware, clothing, and fire-suppression foam.
The bill, passed with a 61-35 vote, would allocate $125 million to assist municipalities and landowners in dealing with PFAS contamination. Municipalities such as Marinette, Madison, Wausau, and the town of Campbell are among those grappling with groundwater pollution.
The legislation includes provisions for grants to test water treatment plants and wells for PFAS, as well as mandates for further studies on these chemicals. However, Governor Tony Evers has expressed concerns about limitations on the Department of Natural Resources' ability to hold polluters accountable.
One contentious aspect of the bill is the requirement for landowners' permission to test water for PFAS. Additionally, the DNR would be restricted from taking enforcement action against landowners who comply with permits related to PFAS. The agency would be responsible for remediation at sites where the polluter is unknown or unable to cover the costs.
Despite the Senate passing the bill earlier, Governor Evers has indicated his reluctance to sign it into law. He has urged for the release of the $125 million trust fund to the DNR, emphasizing the need for a different approach to addressing PFAS contamination.
Assembly Democrats criticized Republicans for their handling of the bill, highlighting the ongoing challenges in making significant progress on PFAS issues. While some lawmakers defended the restrictions in the bill as necessary safeguards for landowners, others urged for a more collaborative approach to tackle pollution concerns.
With the legislative session coming to a close, the fate of the bill remains uncertain. Unless there is a change in the governor's stance, the bill may not advance further, leaving unresolved the pressing issue of PFAS contamination in Wisconsin.
