These toxic chemicals are so prevalent in the United States that nearly everyone in the country has been exposed to them. Polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS are linked to birth defects, cancer, and other debilitating health problems, and yet despite this, our communities aren’t told where these dangerous chemicals are coming from.
But now we have the chance to find out. The U.S. House has an opportunity to add PFAS to the Toxics Release Inventory — a list of over 650 unsafe chemicals monitored by the EPA and disclosed to the public. Please write to your representative and urge them to add all PFAS to this list.
PFAS are found everywhere, from food packaging to children’s toys to drinking water, and the medical effects of exposure can be severe. Despite the ubiquity of these chemicals, the regulation is lacking. Companies are not required to report when they use PFAS in their products, or where — and in what quantities — PFAS are being released into our air and water. That needs to change.
In order to protect ourselves and our families against the most dangerous chemicals, we must know where they come from.
Industry must be held accountable for using these dangerous chemicals and we deserve to have this information. Urge your representatives to require that companies report their use of all PFAS chemicals.
