PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that never break down. These dangerous chemicals can build up in the environment and our bodies, leading to cancer, reproductive and immune system harm.
Because most of us already have trace amounts of PFAS in our bodies, these chemicals find their way into the waste stream and our food supply when the sewage sludge byproduct from wastewater treatment plants is utilized in farming.
This legislation requires owners of wastewater treatment plants to conduct monthly testing of the sludge intended for land application, and implements concentration-based thresholds, protecting farmers and their families from the impact of biosolids containing PFAS.
HB1443 passed out of the House of Delegates 69-29; SB386 cleared the Senate 29-11. Both bills were signed into law.