WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement after the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued four new Lifetime Health Advisories (LHA) for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, two of which lowered the previously released LHAs for PFOS and PFOA to nearly zero parts per trillion.

"Today's decision underscores just how dangerous PFAS 'forever chemicals' are for local communities, including our service members, civilian personnel, and their families. Federal agencies across the U.S. government, especially the Department of Defense, must take action promptly and effectively in response to today’s advisories. I am pleased that the Biden-Harris administration has taken full advantage of resources made available by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support a whole-of-government response to the PFAS challenge. For our part, Congress must continue to conduct rigorous oversight of the Department of Defense’s response and ensure that the U.S. government stands equipped with the right tools, authorities, and resources to protect Americans from harmful PFAS exposure. As Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, I remain committed to strong measures that will also protect those serving on military installations across the United States. Congress has taken bold action on this issue in the past, and we must continue to protect every American from these forever chemicals. The readiness of our fighting force and the health and safety of our communities requires nothing less."

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