California AG Bonta Files Lawsuit Against Manufacturers of PFAS
On Nov. 10, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that the State has filed a lawsuit against the manufacturers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, for endangering public health, causing irreparable harm to the state’s natural resources, and engaging in a widespread campaign to deceive the public. In the filed complaint, it is stated, “To address PFAS contamination in California, extensive and expensive treatment and remediation of PFAS will be required, including, but not limited to, treatment of: … (3) influent and/or effluent from wastewater treatment plants and systems”.

In AG Bonta’s press release, he acknowledges that PFAS are pervasive forever chemicals that are in California’s bays, lakes, streams, and rivers; in its fish, wildlife, and soil; and in the bloodstream of 98% of Californians. This lawsuit against the biggest PFAS manufacturers claims that the producers of these chemicals knew or should have known that PFAS are toxic and harmful to human health and the environment. The suit alleges that the manufacturers of PFAS knowingly violated state consumer protection and environmental laws. For more information please see the press release, and if you would like to view the filed complaint you can do so here.

 

New Wastewater Monitoring Network Seeks Utility Participants
During the pandemic, NACWA engaged with the National League of Cities (NLC) to share information regarding the growth of wastewater-based epidemiology. The NLC is launching a new initiative and is seeking interested POTW and local governments to participate. A synopsis of this effort and contact information is linked here for interested utilities.

 

U.S. EPA Announces Selection of 29 EPA Environmental Finance Centers
On November 4, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of 29 Environmental Finance Centers (EFCs) that will help communities across the country access federal funding for infrastructure and greenhouse gas reduction projects that improve public health and environmental protection. The EFCs will deliver targeted technical assistance to local governments, states, Tribes, and non-governmental organizations to protect public health, safeguard the environment, and advance environmental justice. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the selected EFCs will help underserved communities that have historically struggled to access federal funding receive the support they need to access resources for water infrastructure improvements. Read the full press release.