U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the PFAS Community Engagement and Transparency Act, which would increase the Department of Defense (DOD)’s transparency regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) related activities.

“As PFAS exposure continues to threaten the health of communities in New Hampshire and across the nation, it’s important the Department of Defense remains transparent regarding ongoing testing and remediation efforts,” said Senator Shaheen. “Requiring DoD to report ongoing testing and remediation efforts and increase community engagement is essential as we continue working to mitigate the effects of PFAS contamination. My bill will ensure PFAS-impacted communities and families receive the answers they need to make informed decisions about their health and safety.”

The PFAS Community Engagement and Transparency Act would:

· Require a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report assessing ongoing PFAS testing and remediation efforts on military installations;

· Require DOD to provide technical assistance to communities impacted by PFAS contamination and allow DOD to provide an annual grant to an affected community;

· Establish an office for engagement with PFAS-impacted communities at DOD;

· Direct DOD to provide a recurring report on PFAS-related testing and remediation efforts, including timelines for completion and cost; and

· Require DOD to submit a separate budget documenting activities related to PFAS.