Examining PFAS Chemicals and their Risks

CHAIRMAN ROUDA'S OPENING STATEMENT

PURPOSE

The purpose of the hearing is to examine (1) the health effects associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure, which include decreased fertility, birth defects, liver disease, and increased risk for thyroid disease and cancer; (2) efforts by the Department of Defense to minimize exposure in and around military communities and (3) the Environmental Protection Agency’s recently released action plan regarding these substances

BACKGROUND

PFAS chemicals have been used in a variety of household and industry products for decades in the United States, including fire-fighting foams used by the Department of Defense (DOD). 

PFAS chemicals are currently unregulated by the federal government.

Reps. Dan Kildee (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) led a bipartisan Congressional Task Force on PFAS to propose House action on cleanup and development on PFAS-free military and industrial substances.