Legislators target PFCs in 2018

Legislators are sponsoring many bills related to perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) in 2018.

PFCs are man-made chemicals used in nonstick cookware, stain resistant carpeting, and more.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) has been investigating PFC contamination in drinking water supplies since 2016. DES is providing bottled water to some residents with contaminated wells.

Click here to learn more about the challenges faced by New Hampshire's water supply.

The long-term health effects of PFCs are not fully understood. While almost everyone has small amounts of PFCs in their body, some studies suggest long-term exposure is linked to cancer and other health problems.

In October 2016 DES set a standard of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFCs in groundwater. This standard is based on recommendations from the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

Here is a summary of the 2018 bills related to PFCs released so far:

Setting up stricter limits

HB 1101

Sponsor: Richard Hinch

This bill allows DES to make rules about pollution in the air that makes its way into the water supply. PFCs can start as air pollution before contaminating water supplies. This bill would also require anyone releasing PFCs into the air to get a license from DES.

HB 1590

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill requires DES to make rules about PFCs in surface water. Right now DES only has rules for PFCs in groundwater. Surface water includes lakes, rivers, and streams. Groundwater must be pumped up through a well.

HB 1618

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill similarly requires DES to make rules about PFCs in public water systems, surface water, and other underground water not currently covered by the groundwater rules.

Increasing monitoring

HB 1714

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill requires the Fish and Game Department to test fish stocks every three years for certain chemicals, including PFCs.

HB 1727

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill requires public water suppliers to monitor public water supplies for PFCs.

Informing the public

HB 1610

Sponsor: James McConnell

This bill requires sellers of property to provide notice to buyers of environmentally hazardous sites within one mile of the property, and to disclose water test results if a source of PFCs is identified within one mile of the property.

HB 1632

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill requires bottled water companies to test for PFCs and other chemicals and label bottles with the test results.

Giving the public the power to sue

HB 1591

Sponsor: Mindi Messmer

This bill allows a resident to sue if they are exposed to hazardous toxins, provided that the state or the company/individual responsible is not taking remedial action. Those toxins could include PFCs.

Do you support stricter limits, increased monitoring, or more public disclosure about PFCs in New Hampshire's water supply? Share your thoughts in the comments below.