VESTAL, NY (WSKG) — A House Committee passed legislation that would require PFAS to be listed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxics Release Inventory. The inventory tracks the use and management of toxic chemicals like PFAS.
New York 19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado sponsored the bill. It would require some companies to report their usage of PFAS to the Environmental Protection Agency.
This comes after Delgado already called for the inclusion of PFAS provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act. That funds the Defense department, but, often items are tacked on that are tangential to national defense.
New York's 19th congressional district includes Hoosick Falls, a community whose water was found to have elevated levels. The district also covers Otsego, Delaware and part of Broome Counties.
Earlier this month, the environmental group Seneca Lake Guardians independently tested water sources near the Seneca Army Depot and found PFAS. They said below allowable levels, but the group is now seeking tighter standards.
According to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, PFAS are blends of resins and lubricants used in products like water-repellent clothing, electrical insulation, and paint. Some PFAS do not break down easily, especially in water, and can be dangerous to public health and the environment.