Rail Merger Threatens Economy

State Legislative Efforts on PFAS

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Not All PFAS Are The Same

PFAS are a diverse universe of chemistries integral to products we rely on every day. They play a critical role in industries such as aerospace, advanced manufacturing, energy development, healthcare, agriculture, and construction. Importantly, not all PFAS are the same—they have differing health and environmental profiles, as well as uses. It is not scientifically accurate or appropriate to treat all PFAS the same for the purposes of regulation.

Policy Landscape

  • Targeted Approaches: There is growing recognition by state policymakers of the significant differences among different types of PFAS and the critical uses these chemistries play. The vast majority of states have taken a focused, science-based approach to regulating PFAS, which is increasingly reflected in laws and regulations.
  • Broad Bans & Challenges: Just two states have enacted broad PFAS ban legislation, Maine and Minnesota. These laws have proven difficult to implement and have created significant unintended consequences for these states.
    • Maine: In Maine, the Department of Environmental Protection has issued over 2,500 extensions to companies, leading to substantial legislative reforms.
    • Minnesota: Adopted its law more recently but has already delayed enforcement provisions following widespread concerns from businesses and residents, exempted certain products, and postponed reporting requirements.

These challenges underscore ACC’s position that a one-size-fits-all approach to regulating this important class of chemistry is unworkable.

At the same time, there is an opportunity for policymakers and stakeholders to focus on key issues that make a real difference and address state priorities.

Risks of a Patchwork

Not only are overly broad policies problematic to implement, but differing state approaches risk creating a fragmented regulatory landscape that:

  • Conflicts with federal and international standards
  • Drives up costs and limits product availability
  • Disrupts domestic manufacturing and supply chains
  • Threatens national security applications

The Department of Defense recently released a report highlighting the critical role PFAS chemistries play in safeguarding national security. The Department of Energy and the Food and Drug Administration similarly issued statements supporting uses of fluoropolymers.

ACC's Role

ACC continues to work with lawmakers across the country to:

  • Promote science-based solutions
  • Preserve the benefits of PFAS technologies to critical sectors of state economies
  • Help ensure regulations are practical, consistent, and achievable

Supporting Resources