Michigan Takes Steps to Address PFAS Contamination in Children
In a bid to tackle the widespread concern over PFAS contamination, Michigan lawmakers are taking significant steps to ensure the health and safety of the state’s children. PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to various health issues and are a growing concern across the state.
Numerous sites across Michigan, primarily near industrial and military areas, have been identified with PFAS contamination. These chemicals are notorious for infiltrating the ground, thereby contaminating groundwater and potentially affecting drinking water supplies.
Legislators have introduced Senate Bills 298 & 299 and House Bills 4499 & 4500, which aim to offer free PFAS blood testing for children under 11 years old as of January 1, 2012. This initiative targets families in Kent, Ottawa, and Kalamazoo counties who have relied on well water or public water supplies with PFAS levels surpassing state limits.
The proposed legislation ensures that eligible families receive free PFAS testing and additional resources, including counseling and information sessions as needed. The data gathered from these studies would guide future solutions for those affected.
State Senator Mark Huizenga (R-Walker) anticipates requesting $500,000 in the upcoming fiscal year budget to support this testing and research initiative. “We don’t know how many kids will be needed to get the testing done. But we do know there is a dramatic need,” Huizenga noted, underscoring the urgency of the program, which could potentially expand statewide.
Personal stories like that of Sandy Wynn-Stelt highlight the critical need for testing. Wynn-Stelt, a west Michigan resident who survived cancer while her husband did not, attributes their PFAS exposure to a nearby contaminated site. She believes testing is essential: “When you go in with test results, your doctor can either reassure you that you are OK….or they can start working on your treatment plan and help you.”
State Representative Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) emphasized the importance of state action, especially in light of impending federal changes. “The EPA is proposing to extend the compliance deadline to 2031 for two of the most common PFAS chemicals. And it’s rescinding and reconsidering the limits for four others,” Rogers explained.
The EPA’s proposed actions maintain the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for PFOA and PFOS at 4 parts per trillion, although the compliance deadline will shift to 2031. Additionally, the EPA suggests rescinding regulations for PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and PFBS, removing the current 10 parts per trillion limit for these compounds.
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