In a move aimed at safeguarding the health of Wisconsinites, legislation has been introduced in the State Assembly to address the concern of PFAS contamination in groundwater across the state.
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) -Â In a move aimed at safeguarding the health of Wisconsinites, legislation has been introduced in the State Assembly to address the concern of PFAS contamination in groundwater across the state.
This bill was brought forth by 95th District Representative Jill Billings of La Crosse and 32nd Senate District Senator Brad Pfaff of Onalaska.Â
Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have emerged as a significant environmental threat, with numerous studies linking exposure to adverse health effects such as cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system disorders.
Wisconsin has not been immune to the issue, with several communities such as the Town of Campbell on French Island grappling with PFAS contamination in their water supplies.
The proposed legislation seeks to tackle this issue.
When it comes to PFAS there are currently standards set for the state's surface water and drinking water, but not it's groundwater.
The bill, if passed, will give the Wisconsin DNR the authority to set the groundwater standards at a safe level.
"We know that PFAS exists in groundwater throughout the state of Wisconsin", says Rep. Billings. "The majority of people get their drinking water from groundwater, so this should be a bipartisan. We should be able to get support from both sides of the aisle if people are doing the right thing."
As the legislation makes its way through the Assembly, Rep. Billings and Sen. Pfaff are hopeful that it will receive bipartisan support and expedited approval.
