Shaheen, Collins & Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on EPA to Ensure Funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Helps Address PFAS Contamination in Private Wells

August 5, 2022

Read the full article by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen

"U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) led a bipartisan group of Senators calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure funding allocated in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to combat per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in small and underserved communities is available to address contamination in residential wells.

“We write to reiterate our intent for this funding to be available for a wide array of projects and activities to address PFAS contamination in small and disadvantaged communities, including allowing for states to provide assistance to residents whose private wells are impacted by contamination of underground drinking water sources,” the Senators wrote. “We further encourage you to provide states flexibility and guidance on evaluating their underlying criteria for determining which communities are disadvantaged to ensure that those facing disproportionate impact from PFAS contamination may receive assistance through this program.”

“It is crucial that this funding be executed with the appropriate flexibility not only to support public water systems but also to help address contamination for those who rely on private wells,” the Senators continued. “With an estimated 23 million people or more nationwide relying on residential wells, it is important that the historic investments in safe drinking water help all families.”