States Ramp Up PFAS Legislation: Is Your State Taking Action?

The PFAS Policy Dashboard has been updated to capture an exciting and dynamic shift in state-level legislative activity. In 2024, a notable 179 pieces of legislation related to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) emerged across 31 states, marking a significant trend in how policymakers are addressing these ubiquitous environmental contaminants. The Rockefeller Institute’s meticulous documentation has broadened to cover nine years of data, providing a comprehensive view of this legislative landscape.

The Rise of State-Level Action

Why are so many states suddenly prioritizing legislation on PFAS? The growing awareness and concern over these substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment, have captured the public and governmental focus. According to Rockefeller Institute of Government, a staggering 73 million Americans are served by water systems with detectable levels of PFAS. The urgency for action is clear, sparking significant legislative moves aimed at protecting public and environmental health.

Key Legislative Trends and Statistics

The most active states in introducing PFAS-related bills in 2024 include Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, and Maine. Meanwhile, a handful of states like Alabama and Idaho have yet to introduce any new legislation on the matter. Interestingly, the most frequently addressed areas in these bills continue to revolve around drinking water standards, appropriations, and consumer products.

In 2024, a shift towards more complex issues like biosolids and essential uses was observed. These legislative nuances reveal that policymakers are recognizing the interrelated aspects of PFAS usage in sectors like agriculture and food, highlighting a growing legislative awareness.

The Concept of “Essential Uses”

A significant development in 2024 was the introduction of the “essential uses” approach to PFAS regulation, a legislative strategy aimed at identifying necessary applications of these substances while phasing out avoidable uses. This strategy stems from successful environmental frameworks and allows for more holistic regulatory efforts that could be adapted for other chemical contaminants as well.

The Importance of Definitions

The way PFAS are defined within legislation has profound implications on regulatory success. The majority of 2024 bills continued to adopt a broad definition, including at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom, echoing a preference towards inclusivity in regulation. This consistent approach suggests a legislative alignment aimed at casting a wide net over potentially harmful chemical compounds.

Looking Forward

As state legislation evolves, the PFAS Policy Dashboard will remain a pivotal tool in tracking these developments. Its comprehensive collection of data not only serves as a reference for current policy but also paves the way for future legislative frameworks. Lawmakers and stakeholders alike can draw on these models to navigate the multifaceted challenges posed by PFAS.

The Rockefeller Institute remains committed to providing in-depth research and policy insights to guide and inform continued efforts against PFAS-related issues in states across the nation.