Bill > HB211

This bill, known as the "PFAS Receiver Shield Act," aims to provide certain legal protections to entities that use or receive chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are a broad group of man-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products. Specifically, the bill establishes that a "PFAS receiver," defined as any person or entity that uses, receives, or owns products containing PFAS, or handles waste containing PFAS, and is not a PFAS manufacturer themselves, will generally be shielded from lawsuits related to their use, receipt, or disposal of these chemicals, unless their actions constitute "gross negligence." Gross negligence is defined as an intentional, deliberate action with a reckless disregard for consequences, something more serious than ordinary carelessness but less than criminal misconduct. The bill also clarifies that this immunity applies to the handling of PFAS substances, including disposing of industrial waste into wastewater treatment facilities and solid waste into landfills, provided the PFAS receiver has followed all regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This immunity is in addition to any other existing legal protections and does not apply to enforcement actions by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, nor does it prevent defendants from seeking damages for personal injury or death, or negate the duty to warn the public about safety threats. The bill also specifies that it does not alter laws related to crimes, health, workers' compensation, or emergency management.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69726