A Maine lawmaker is pushing a bill that would require health insurers to cover PFAS blood tests for exposed individuals, but opponents argue the mandate could drive up costs.
AnnMarie Hilton reports for Maine Morning Star.
In short:
- The bill, sponsored by Sen. Stacy Brenner (D-Cumberland), would mandate insurance coverage for PFAS blood tests deemed medically necessary, starting in 2026.
- Opponents, including the Maine Association of Health Plans, argue the proposal is a public health initiative rather than a medical necessity and could increase insurance premiums.
- PFAS exposure is linked to serious health risks, including cancer and liver damage, and is prevalent among farmers, firefighters, and communities near contaminated sites.
Key quote:
“Maine’s insurance code is not the place to establish or fund public health initiatives.”
— Dan Demeritt, executive director of the Maine Association of Health Plans
Why this matters:
Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to a range of health issues, including cancer, immune system suppression, and reproductive disorders. Because these chemicals accumulate in the body over time, even low levels of exposure can be concerning. In Maine, where contamination has been traced to agricultural runoff and industrial spills, residents and lawmakers are calling for stronger regulations and better monitoring of affected areas.
Blood tests can measure a person’s PFAS exposure, but they do not indicate whether someone will develop health problems as a result. Still, in contaminated communities, these tests provide crucial data that can help scientists and policymakers understand the extent of exposure. The question of who should cover the costs of such testing — and any potential medical care that follows—has fueled debate over insurance policies. As the scale of PFAS contamination becomes clearer, the challenge remains: how to address the crisis without overwhelming an already burdened healthcare system.
Related EHN coverage: Where did the PFAS in your blood come from? These computer models offer clues
