Rep. Joanne Ferrary, D-Las Cruces, highlighted the dangers of PFAS chemicals during a recent House committee meeting. She pointed out that the concentration of PFAS in a fabric protectant was almost 50 times higher than EPA drinking water standards. Ferrary is sponsoring a bill, HB 212, to ban consumer products containing PFAS in New Mexico, which recently passed the committee vote. New Mexico Environment Department Secretary James Kenney emphasized the deceptive marketing of PFAS-containing products as safe.
The bill includes exemptions for certain products, such as medical devices and pharmaceuticals, to prevent human exposure to PFAS. Another bill, HB 140, sponsored by Rep. Christine Chandler, aims to classify PFAS as hazardous waste to address contamination in communities like La Cieneguilla. Kenney stressed the long-term health impacts of PFAS exposure, including high cholesterol and learning disabilities.
Despite opposition from the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce, supporters believe these bills are essential for protecting public health. The legislation would also hold agencies accountable for cleaning up PFAS-containing firefighting foam. By taking proactive measures at the state level, New Mexico hopes to address PFAS contamination without waiting for federal action. Kenney is optimistic about continuing the rulemaking process for PFAS chemicals under the current administration.
Overall, the bills aim to remove harmful PFAS chemicals from consumer products and designate them as hazardous waste to prevent further contamination and protect future generations from health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
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