WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that would address the contamination and cleanup of dangerous chemicals that endanger the health of humans and wildlife alike. The bipartisan PFAS Action Act, sponsored by Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Fred Upton (R-Mich.), passed the House of Representatives today and will provide resources to local water utilities to address the release of these dangerous chemicals in drinking water and wildlife habitat.

“Addressing the clean-up and further release of these toxic chemicals will help ensure that the waters that we drink, swim, and fish in are safe for future generations. This legislation protects not only people, but also wildlife species, from bluegills and great blue herons to largemouth bass and deer, threatened by these dangerous chemicals,” said Mike Shriberg, the National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes regional executive director. “We are grateful for Congresswoman Dingell and Congressman Upton’s leadership in ensuring bipartisan passage in the House and look forward to working with Senators to help ensure these chemicals are no longer a public health hazard.”

Under the legislation, PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances would be regulated under safe drinking water standards. The bill will also provide resources to ensure reduction of pollution before it enters water supplies and clean-up of current toxic pollution.