Chairwoman Johnson Applauds EPA’s Proposal to Designate PFAS Chemicals as Hazardous Substances under Superfund

(Dallas, TX) – Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed to designate two of the most prevalent PFAS—perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)— as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental, Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as Superfund. Listing these PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” under Superfund would provide increased transparency around releases of PFAS and help hold polluters accountable for cleaning up their contamination. PFAS--specifically, PFOA and PFOS--have been linked to cancer, reproductive, developmental, and immunological effects.

 

“I am pleased to see the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to designate PFAS chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, as hazardous substances under Superfund,” said Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX). “Far too many communities have suffered from exposure to these ‘forever chemicals’ and this is a long overdue step in the right direction. Designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous chemicals will assist the EPA and communities to hold polluters accountable and prevent future PFAS pollution. This is an important first step to address dangerous PFAS chemicals.”