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The dangers of PFAS (Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as ‘forever chemicals’, have been apparent for years.  Finally the federal government has laid out a new limit on these toxic chemicals. PFAS are utilized across various commercial, industrial, and military contexts. PFAS exposure raises the risk of thyroid disease, weakened immune systems, ulcerative colitis, pregnancy induced hypertension, elevated cholesterol and kidney and testicular cancers.

The new federal rule sets Maximum Contaminant Levels for these and certain other PFAS in drinking water. Certain water providers can apply for federal funding support to mitigate the presence of these PFAS.  This announcement marks a significant milestone in environmental and public health policy.

Class Action Lawsuits Seek Justice for PFAS Contamination Victims

Singleton Schreiber recently initiated a class action lawsuit on behalf of the La Cieneguilla and La Cienega communities in New Mexico, addressing PFAS-related issues. Singleton Schreiber also has initiated a class action lawsuit on behalf of the community in French Island, Wisconsin for contamination from the Lacrosse, Wisconsin Airport. These legal actions seek property related damage for those harmed by contaminated drinking water. The French Island action also seeks monitoring for the early detection of PFAS related illness or disease.

The contamination, primarily caused by aqueous film-forming foam (a type of firefighting foam), has adversely affected the community's environmental health over several decades. Manufacturers of these foams were aware of the hazardous nature of the forever chemicals it contained yet continued to supply it to entities like the New Mexico Army National Guard and the Santa Fe Regional Airport and the Lacrosse Airport, ultimately leading to the contamination of local water sources.

The firm is representing these and other communities damaged by corporations such as DuPont, 3M, and other PFAS manufacturers. These profit-oriented entities prioritized the sale and use of toxic chemicals despite being fully cognizant of the risks posed to local water sources. The claims filed by residents of these communities will be included in Multidistrict Litigation being heard in South Carolina.

The new EPA rule is a first step forward for the federal government in addressing this national crisis, but the fight is long from over. Local governments around the country and New Mexico communities should remain cautious about what lies ahead and continue to hold their government to account in this cleanup process. Implementing and enforcing these changes nationwide and in New Mexico is essential for the health and wellbeing of all people.