Mike Gallagher: “I thank the gentleman from Texas. Mr. Speaker, last week, the House passed H.R. 535, the PFAS Action Act of 2019. This…”

“I thank the gentleman from Texas. Mr. Speaker, last week, the House passed H.R. 535, the PFAS Action Act of 2019. This important legislation marks a critical step forward in addressing the public health crisis caused by so-called forever chemicals like PFAS. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, certain compounds of PFAS, like PFOA and PFOS, are known to cause liver damage, thyroid disease, asthma, birth defects, and even some cancers. Unfortunately, for many in northeast Wisconsin, this fight is personal and tragic. Anyone who has been to our small corner of the country knows that water is part of what makes northeast Wisconsin so special and beautiful. Unfortunately, this water, which is so central to our way of life, is under threat from chemicals like PFOA and PFOS. While until recently, PFAS was an unknown contaminant. Recent studies give us a better understanding of the risks posed by compounds like PFOA and PFOS. Not only have our communities been unwittingly placed at risk by these toxins, but it has taken far too long to get them the resources required to mitigate their effects. As a result, these toxic chemicals have contaminated local water sources and literally poisoned the well from which Wisconsinites drink. No one should be afraid to drink or use the water from their tap.…”