Read the full article (Richard Blumenthal United States Senator for Connecticut)
“[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced legislation to reduce exposure of servicemembers and their families to harmful PFAS chemicals. The PFAS Free Military Purchasing Act prohibits the Department of Defense from procuring, purchasing, and selling items that contain per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), dangerous and toxic chemicals commonly found in many everyday items like food service ware, carpets and rugs, clothing, and cosmetics. PFAS exposure has been linked to a number of serious health conditions, including cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility, and increased risk of asthma and thyroid disease.
‘This bill will help protect the health of our armed forces from highly hazardous PFAS chemicals,’ said Blumenthal. ‘These persistent and pervasive toxins are in cookware, furniture, toothpaste, and many other everyday items, putting members of our military and their families needlessly at risk. With PFAS-free products widely available, DOD should lead the way in making the switch to healthier alternatives for the sake of our servicemembers—and pave the way for the rest of the country to follow suit…’”