Bill > HR1267

This bill, known as the "Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act," seeks to provide legal protection for certain water-related entities regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are synthetic chemicals commonly found in various industrial and consumer products. The bill would exempt public water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, municipalities, state political subdivisions, and their contractors from liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) for PFAS releases, provided they handle these substances in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Specifically, the exemption covers activities such as water treatment, biosolids management, effluent discharge, and water storage, as long as these actions are conducted according to existing federal and state water management guidelines. The bill defines a "covered perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substance" as a non-polymeric substance with at least two fully fluorinated carbon atoms, excluding gases and volatile liquids. However, the liability protection does not extend to cases where an entity acts with gross negligence or willful misconduct in managing PFAS. This legislation aims to provide clarity and protection for water system operators dealing with these potentially harmful chemicals while maintaining accountability for egregious mishandling.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1267/all-info