NewsLocal News

Actions

Elissa Slotkin secures PFAS remediation

New study says most Michigan water samples contain no PFAS
Posted at 5:33 PM, Jun 11, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-11 17:33:08-04

LANSING, Mich. — Legislation to help remediate and take preventative measures against PFAS has been secured.

U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin has advocated for and secured critical measures in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the major annual bill authorizing national defense spending, to stem the flow of PFAS contamination and hold the Department of Defense(DoD) accountable for future clean up, according to a press release from Slotkin's office.

Slotkin secured the following NDAA measures to prevent further PFAS contamination by requiring the DoD to stop using PFAS-laden firefighting foam (AFFF) by 2029. The NDAA also requires the DoD to report back to the House Armed Services Committee by 2025 with the requirements for transitioning away from the firefighting foam.

The uncontrolled release of the firefighting foam in non-emergency situations is also a preventative measure, according to the press release, according to the press release.

In addition, Slotkin has also worked to make sure the DoD is held accountable for PFAS remediation including requiring that the DoD report on best practices for clean-up and disposal of PFAS-contaminated groundwater, soils, filters and gaps that require further research and action as well as providing an additional $121.3 million in environmental restoration accounts for PFAS remediation.

Slotkin's security measures also ensure those affected by PFAS contamination including requiring the DoD to provide blood testing for each firefighter and authorizing the Dod to ensure adequate training for individuals in regular contact with AFF.

“I believe that Michigan soon will face the existential crisis of deciding whether clean water out of your tap is a right or a privilege, and I believe it is a right,” Slotkin said. “As PFAS contamination, particularly in and around our military bases, threatens the safety of more and more families in communities across our state, I’m glad to see the NDAA include the provisions I have been fighting for to begin to meet the threat of PFAS contamination with the urgency it requires.”

Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.

Download our free app for Appleand Android

and

Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.

Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.

Follow us on Twitter

Like us on Facebook