Senate committee unanimously supports House Bill 167 to limit PFAS use

In a recent meeting held by the Environmental Service Department in New Hampshire, significant progress was reported on two key pieces of legislation concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to address public health concerns related to these harmful chemicals.

The first piece of legislation, House Bill 199, aimed to eliminate the statute of limitations for medical claims related to PFAS exposure. However, this bill was tabled on March 20, receiving a vote of 188 to 170, indicating a setback in efforts to provide legal recourse for affected individuals.

In contrast, House Bill 167, which seeks to prohibit certain waxes containing PFAS, has gained momentum. This bill was executed on March 19 with unanimous support from the committee, and it was adopted by the entire House on March 26. Following a Senate hearing on April 8, the Senate Committee also unanimously supported the bill, which is expected to be placed on the consent calendar for the next Senate session. If successful, it will move forward to the governor's desk for final approval.

The meeting also touched on future discussions regarding wastewater management and sludge, with plans to involve relevant staff in upcoming sessions. The next meeting is scheduled for May 9, where further updates and community concerns will be addressed.

These legislative developments reflect the state's commitment to tackling environmental health issues and protecting residents from the risks associated with PFAS. As the situation evolves, community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in these critical discussions.