Bill to establish first-in-the-nation PFAS response program receives committee support

AUGUSTA – On March 4, 2025, the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee approved LD 130, “An Act to Establish the PFAS Response Program and to Modify the Fund to Address PFAS Contamination,” a bill sponsored by Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel. The bill aims to formally establish the existing PFAS Response Program at the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. The bill passed in committee with nine voting in favor and one voting “ought not to pass.”

“This bill furthers the good work that has made Maine a nationwide model for PFAS response,” said Sen. Ingwersen. “It allows for meaningful progress in PFAS response methods that will help our farmers and protect public health. Maine has some of the best farms and healthiest food in the country — and this legislation will help keep it that way.”

LD 130 would formalize the PFAS Advisory Committee, which allows the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to provide resources to farmers who were impacted by PFAS contamination. This bill would also establish the Department’s ability to codify a maximum level for PFAS in food.

The bill faces further votes in the full Senate and the House.