In a recent move, Wisconsin's legislature approved a $125 million plan to tackle PFAS contamination, yet Governor Evers expresses strong reservations.
Todd Richmond reports for the Associated Press.
In short:
- The Wisconsin Assembly passed a bill to allocate $125 million for combating PFAS pollution in water sources.
- The bill aims to fund testing and remediation but limits the Department of Natural Resources' enforcement capabilities.
- Governor Evers opposes the bill, citing concerns over reduced accountability for polluters and potential legislative deadlock.
Key quote:
"We’ve got to stop playing these games on (the bill) and PFAS contamination."
— Rep. Rob Swearingen
Why this matters:
Whatever the fate of the Wisconsin bill, a new report finds that 2024 could be a big year for PFAS bans. In 2024, policymakers in 36 states are expected to consider over 450 bills targeting toxic chemicals, with a significant focus on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, water quality, plastics, and cosmetics.
