Contaminated Wells Relocation Act
Contaminated Wells Relocation Act
Plain Language Summary
# Contaminated Wells Relocation Act Summary **What the bill does:** This bill would allow NASA to pay for removing and relocating drinking water wells in Chincoteague, Virginia that have been contaminated with PFAS chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These wells are located on NASA's Wallops Flight Facility and became contaminated from firefighting foams used at the site since the 1970s. Currently, NASA operates a water treatment system to clean the affected water supply, but this bill would authorize the agency to reimburse the town for the costs of physically moving the wells to a safer location. **Who it affects:** The primary beneficiaries are residents of Chincoteague, Virginia, who depend on these wells for drinking water.
NASA would bear the financial responsibility for the relocation project. The bill requires any agreement between NASA and the town to include specific details like where the wells will be moved, the relocation plan, and cost estimates. **Current status:** The bill (S. 606) was introduced by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
CRS Official Summary
Contaminated Wells Relocation ActThis bill permits the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to enter into an agreement to reimburse the town of Chincoteague, Virginia for costs directly associated with the removal and relocation of drinking water wells currently situated on NASA property. (Drinking water wells located at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility near Chincoteague have tested positive for perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, resulting from the use of certain firefighting foams at the site beginning in the 1970s. NASA currently operates a water treatment system to remove PFAS from the affected water supply.) Any such agreement must include, to the extent practicable, (1) a provision for the removal and relocation of the wells remaining on NASA property, (2) a description of the location to which the wells are planned to be relocated, and (3) a current cost estimate of such relocation. Replacement wells must be established on property under the administrative control of the town of Chincoteague.
Latest Action
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 149.