Taking action to clean up Wisconsin’s water
For over 900 days, communities have been anxiously awaiting the release of funds they were promised to help mitigate the impact of PFAS. Finally, recent legislative action means that this crucial funding might soon be on its way.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, more commonly known as PFAS, are dangerous chemicals which have polluted the quality of our drinking water in communities across Wisconsin. In July 2023, Governor Evers signed the 2023-2025 Biennial Budget, setting aside $125M towards PFAS mitigation. The funding required legislative approval to be released, which my Republican colleagues have refused to provide ever since.
Finally, after 2.5 years of advocacy and months of intensive negotiations, a compromise was struck. During the final hour of our last session day of the year, legislation to release the long-awaited funding was passed unanimously on the floor of the State Assembly.
The bills, Assembly Bills 130 and 131, provide a direct path to PFAS prevention and mitigation with the newly released funds. This includes $80M for PFAS Community Grant Program, $35M to the Well Compensation Grant Program, $5.3M dedicated to the Airport Grant Program, and more.
I am extremely proud of my legislative colleagues for tirelessly working together to make progress on the cleanup of these harmful chemicals. I am hopeful that these bills will be the first step towards restoring universal access to safe, clean drinking water.
Our work is not done yet. At the time of writing this, these proposals are now awaiting action in the State Senate. Hopefully, by the time this is printed, the Senate will have passed these proposals during their March floor period. Regardless, protecting our environment will remain my priority, as this fight is one that remains crucial to sustaining our shared future.
