Related: Shaheen questions Air Force secretary on PFAS health study

“WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., and Mike Rounds, R-S.D., on Thursday introduced the PFAS Registry Act, which would create a national database for service members and veterans experiencing health problems possibly due to contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

PFAS chemicals have emerged as a widespread contaminant in drinking water sources of military bases across the country due to their use in firefighting foam used by the Armed Services. The bipartisan bill would allow military personnel and veterans to receive updates on recent scientific developments on the effects of PFAS exposure, availability of possible treatment options and information on what resources may be available to address their health concerns.

Shaheen has led efforts in Congress that seek to determine the health impact of emerging contaminants in water supplies. Last month, she secured the funding for her nationwide PFAS health impact study to move forward.

‘Too many people, particularly service members and veterans who are in environments that have higher exposure to these chemicals, have been left wondering about the potential health impact of PFAS-contaminated water. That’s unacceptable,’ Shaheen said.

Shaheen has fought for Pease International Tradeport to be included in the nationwide health impact study. She also introduced the bipartisan Safe Drinking Water Assistance Act, which would help expedite the analysis of contaminants and provide resources to states dealing with health challenges posed by these potentially harmful materials.

The tradeport, a former Air Force base, experienced considerable ground and drinking water contamination from PFAS chemicals. The city of Portsmouth in 2014 closed the Haven well at Pease after the Air Force found levels of PFAS chemicals at 12.5 times higher than what was then the provisional health advisory from the EPA. State health officials determined more than 1,500 adults and children have elevated levels of PFAS in their blood from drinking contaminated groundwater near Pease.”

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