The Flint Courier News: Congresswoman McDonald Rivet Co-Chairs Bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force in the 119th Congress
WASHINGTON—Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a wide range of health issues, including increased risk of certain cancers (like kidney and testicular), thyroid disease, hormone disruption, liver damage and reproductive issues.
While the Flint water crisis is primarily known for its lead contamination, PFAS were also detected in the Flint River after the switch to its water source.
There are ongoing efforts to address both lead and PFAS contamination in Flint, including infrastructure upgrades, water testing and research into potential sources of contamination.
On May 6, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) announced she will co-chair the bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force in the 119th Congress along with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12), and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02).
“Our country needs to address the problems PFAS chemicals create head-on, which is why I’m proud to co-chair the bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force with both Republicans and Democrats,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “We will work together to raise awareness of the risk of PFAS chemicals and advocate for commonsense solutions for our constituents.”
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” are used in a wide array of products like firefighting foams, nonstick pans, food packaging, cosmetics and fabrics. Some PFAs have harmful effects, and their widespread use has contaminated soil, surface water, groundwater, and food across the country.
The PFAS Task Force has brought Democrats and Republicans together to champion pragmatic legislative reforms and strong federal investments for cleanup efforts, all while ensuring the needs of impacted communities remain front and center. Over the next two years, the Task Force’s priorities include:
- Advancing comprehensive legislation to end harmful PFAS pollution;
- Educating lawmakers and the public on the serious health and environmental consequences of PFAS exposure; and
- Securing historic federal investments in research, remediation, and prevention.
“In Michigan we know all too well the urgent, growing threat PFAS pose. It’s more important than ever we’re taking serious action in Congress to keep PFAS out of our homes, water, and environment, hold polluters accountable, and clean up existing contamination,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan PFAS Task Force to help educate our colleagues on this important issue, and work together across the aisle to advance legislation to protect Americans from the growing and urgent public health threat of forever chemicals.”