Rounds, Shaheen Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Assist Veterans & Service Members Exposed to PFAS Contaminants

WASHINGTON –U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) today reintroduced the PFAS Registry Act, legislation that would create a national database for service members and veterans experiencing health problems possibly due to contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

“While the military works to clean up PFAS contamination on bases around the country, it’s important that veterans, service members and their families have access to the most up-to-date information on the effects of PFAS exposure and treatment options,” said Senator Rounds. “I’m pleased to partner with Sen. Shaheen again this Congress on legislation to create a PFAS Registry. As we learn more about PFAS chemicals, it’s important those who may have been exposed to them have all the tools available to fully understand the effects of PFAS contamination. Our bill is an important first step to enable them to gain that understanding.”

PFAS chemicals, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), have emerged as a widespread contaminant to the drinking water sources of military bases across the country due to their use in firefighting foam used by the Armed Services. This bipartisan bill would allow military personnel and veterans to receive updates on recent scientific developments on the effects of PFAS exposure, availability of possible treatment options, and information on what resources may be available to address their health concerns.

###