Legislation unveiled Nov. 19 by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) would establish a new position at the Pentagon to improve transparency, drive remediation, and better support communities suffering from exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are toxic compounds linked to cancer, thyroid disorders, and other life-threatening health conditions. They’ve historically been used in military firefighting foam that has contaminated water and soil in communities near military installations.
“Our bipartisan legislation demands decisive action and transparency from the Department of Defense, ensuring that impacted communities are no longer ignored or left in the dark,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the Congressional PFAS Task Force. “Families in Pennsylvania’s First District and across the nation deserve swift solutions and the unwavering commitment of their government to protect their health, safety, and future.”
Rep. Fitzpatrick sponsored H.R. 10166, which would direct the U.S. Defense Secretary to designate a Coordinator for Engagement with PFAS-impacted defense communities, according to the congressional record bill summary. Under the bill, the PFAS coordinator would be responsible for directly engaging with impacted communities to address concerns, ensure accountability, and provide updates on remediation efforts; streamlining communication between local stakeholders, advocacy organizations, and federal agencies; and orchestrating transparent and swift progress on cleanup efforts.
“PFAS contamination is one of the most serious and far-reaching public health crises of our time, and alongside Congressman Kildee, tackling it has been at the heart of our work in Congress,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said of his fellow task force co-chair.
Rep. Kildee pointed out that hundreds of military sites across the United States have been contaminated by PFAS, yet complaints from impacted communities have fallen on deaf ears at the U.S. Department of Defense.
“By designating a point person at the Defense Department to engage with PFAS-impacted communities, our legislation would ensure that their voices are heard at the highest levels of government,” he added.
H.R. 10166 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Armed Services Committee.