A bill to require the provision of alternative drinking water to households whose private drinking water is contaminated with perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid substances from activities of the Department of Defense.

# Bill Summary: S 3445 - PFOA/PFOS Drinking Water Contamination Relief **What the Bill Does** This bill would require the Department of Defense to provide alternative drinking water to households whose private wells have been contaminated with two specific chemicals: perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These "forever chemicals" are persistent pollutants that don't break down naturally in the environment. The bill holds the DoD responsible for contamination resulting from its own activities, suggesting these chemicals may have entered groundwater through military operations or facilities. **Who It Affects** The bill directly affects civilian households with private wells near military installations or DoD properties where PFOS/PFOA contamination has occurred. It could also impact military families and communities adjacent to military bases.

The Department of Defense would bear the responsibility and costs of providing clean drinking water alternatives to affected residents. **Current Status** S 3445 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) during the 119th Congress. The bill has not yet advanced to a floor vote, meaning it remains in the early legislative stage.