For Immediate Release
April 17, 2019
Contact: Katherine Levasseur
(802) 828-2245
VERMONT HOUSE GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO PFAS REGULATION BILL
Montpelier, VT - Today, the Vermont House of Representatives passed S.49, a bill that regulates polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water and surface waters in Vermont on a vote of 135-1.
Representative Amy Sheldon (D-Middlebury), Chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish, and Wildlife, said “this bill is integral in creating a healthier and safer environment for all Vermonters. PFAS are found in everyday products such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, and cosmetics. These substances can be toxic to humans in extremely small concentrations and unfortunately have been found in public and private water supplies in Vermont. This bill establishes regulatory monitoring of Vermont drinking waters to ensure that Vermonters remain safe and manufacturers are held accountable for their waste.”
“Because PFAS are highly resistant to degradation, they persist in our environment for a very long time and we need a system in place that ensures safe drinking water for Vermonters across the state,” added Representative Trevor Squirrell (D-Underhill), Ranking member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish, and Wildlife who presented the bill on the floor. “Exposure to PFAS have been linked to growth, learning, and behavior problems in infants and children, fertility and pregnancy problems, and other serious medical concerns. That is why on or before December 1, 2019 all public water systems in Vermont will be required to conduct monitoring for PFAS levels. If high levels are found, the Agency of Natural Resources will require drinking supply managers to lower the levels to ensure public health and safety.”
“We are committed to a clean water future for all Vermonters in order to have healthy families and healthy communities,” said House Speaker Mitzi Johnson (D-South Hero). “This bill will provide information so that Vermonters can be certain that their drinking water is safe. Access to clean drinking water is a right, not a privilege. Not only will this bill ensure clean drinking water, but it will improve and protect our waterways.”
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