Shaheen Helps Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Support Farmers Affected by PFAS

October 21, 2022

Read the full article by Jeanne Shaheen

"In a bipartisan, bicameral effort to provide vital assistance to farmers affected by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) to introduce the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act. U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree (ME-01) and Jared Golden (ME-02) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.?The legislation would authorize grants for states to provide financial assistance to affected farmers, expand monitoring and testing, remediate prevalent PFAS or even help farmers relocate.

PFAS are man-made “forever” chemicals that are used in industry and consumer products and can lead to serious health effects. PFAS contamination has prevented some farms from selling their products, creating financial hardship for affected family farmers.?

“The more we look for PFAS, the more we understand how widespread these chemicals are, and unfortunately our farming community is no exception. That’s why it’s imperative that we have a robust federal response for industries and communities that have been adversely impacted through no fault of their own so they can keep people safe and operations running,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bipartisan, bicameral proposal is a comprehensive approach to help farmers who’ve been hard hit by PFAS exposure, and it addresses everything from educational programs for individuals affected to increased water and soil testing and remediation. Our farmers face enough challenges and adversity from uncontrollable shifts in our climate and economy – reacting to an expansive and troubling issue like PFAS contamination shouldn’t be another hurdle they have to face alone.”