ACIL

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Peek Behind the Federal Regulatory Curtain: PFAS and Changing Policies

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PFAS are at the top of our minds and our news feeds as scientists reveal more data about the impact of polyfluoroalkyl substances on our health and our environment. Environmental groups, scientists, laboratories, and politicians across the aisle agree; it’s time to legislate these “forever chemicals.” 2020 took some steps towards regulating PFAS, especially PFOA and PFOS, which are known carcinogens and are linked to many other long-term health effects. But more work needs to be done. To help break down the federal government’s response to PFAS, here is a snapshot of recent news in the PFAS pipeline.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

On January 1, Congress overrode President Trump’s veto and enacted H.R. 6395 (NDAA), the authorization bill that directs spending for the Department of Defense (DoD) in conjunction with the FY 21 omnibus appropriations bill.

The 2021 NDAA addresses PFAS contamination on military bases and in military equipment. Multiple provisions follow-up on the 2020 NDAA provisions, which began phasing out AFFF (Aqueous Fire Fighting Foam) after studies linked AFFF with PFAS contaminated ground and drinking water on military bases and in surrounding communities. Follow-up actions include:

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State and Federal PFAS Updates

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Making State and National news, there is no doubt that PFAS is top of mind for water experts and consumers alike. To provide you with an updated snapshot of the many moving parts of this complex issue, let’s take a look at what’s currently in the PFAS pipeline:

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Leaders in the Industry: Babcock Labs Addresses Regulatory Issues

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Next month Babcock Laboratories will help address regulatory issues on Capitol Hill and in Sacramento.


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"Independence" Day: ACIL Meets on Capitol Hill

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Last week I attended the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL) Policies and Practices (P2) Conference in Washington, D.C. This annual conference is comprised of educational sessions that combine government relations and business practices in support of ACIL’s mission to provide the independent testing community with advocacy, education, and alliances that enable members to better address environmental and product risks to the public.

Most notably, one full day of the conference was spent on Capitol Hill meeting with various Congressional representatives. In addition to members attending special session meetings, ACIL and its guests delivered a Congressional Briefing.