New Mexico advances PFAS legislation to Senate floor

Two important bills to tackle pollution from PFAS chemicals have passed their final committee and will soon be voted on by the New Mexico Senate. These chemicals, also known as "forever chemicals," are used in many products but do not break down, leading to potential health risks. One bill, House Bill 140, aims to change the definition of hazardous waste to include firefighting foams containing PFAS. This change could help the New Mexico Environment Department to better manage PFAS contamination, especially near military bases. The state is currently involved in legal battles with the U.S. Department of Defense regarding PFAS cleanup. The second bill, House Bill 212, proposes a gradual ban on products with PFAS. This includes most consumer goods while allowing some exemptions for essential items like electronics and medical devices. Lawmaker Rep. Joanne Ferrary highlighted the high costs associated with cleaning PFAS from water supplies, stressing the need to phase out these harmful substances. New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney is working with Senate leaders to ensure these bills get a vote before the legislative session ends in four days. He emphasized the importance of accountability in the ongoing discussions about PFAS regulation in New Mexico.