Dahle holds bipartisan roundtable discussion on PFAS to review environmental and health impacts

Last week, Senator Brian Dahle, vice chair of the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality, met with lawmakers, industry leaders and stakeholders for an informative discussion regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and their potential harmful impacts on California’s water and soil.

PFAS or “forever chemicals” are a group of chemicals widely used in numerous industrial and consumer products.

Senator Allen, Chair of the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality and Vice Chair Dahle discuss PFAS with stakeholders and industry leaders.

In April, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced new limits on the levels of certain PFAS in drinking water that will require all public water systems to begin monitoring levels by 2027.

“I’d like to thank Senator Allen, industry leaders, and advocates for their collaboration and invaluable input,” said Dahle. “As vice chair of the Environmental Quality Committee, I’ve been laser focused on better understanding how policymakers can craft commonsense legislation and a realistic regulatory framework that protects Californians from harmful chemicals while maintaining our quality of life.”

Studies have shown PFAS have been associated with a range of potential health issues, including developmental effects on fetuses and infants, immune system effects, cancer and other adverse health effects and are known for their persistence in the environment and ability to bioaccumulate in the human body.

“Lawmakers must be prudent, and not charge ahead without a clear path forward,
Dahle said. “Last week’s discussions emphasized the need for continued dialogue with industry leaders. It will take collective action to support California’s water providers and businesses as they adapt to future regulations.”

About Senator Brian Dahle
Senator Brian Dahle represents California’s 1st Senate District, which contains all or portions of 15 counties, including Lassen, Alpine, El Dorado, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Sierra, Siskiyou, and Shasta. Also serving deferred areas of Tehama, Butte, Colusa and Glenn counties.