Sen. Ingwersen bill to establish first-in-the-nation PFAS response program receives support from the Maine Senate

AUGUSTA — On April 29, the Maine Senate gave its initial support to 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 (DACF).

“We know that Maine’s PFAS Fund is a robust response to the challenges facing Maine farmers that are confronted with PFAS contamination by continuing to support those impacted the most,” said Sen. Ingwersen. “This legislation will allow Maine to effectively address the PFAS contamination crisis, protecting our businesses, farms and natural resources.”

LD 130 would allow the DACF to continue to provide resources to Maine farmers to mitigate against PFAS contamination. The bill would also improve the PFAS Response Program’s effectiveness and efficiency and continue supporting impacted farmers by providing direct financial support, funding research and supporting access to blood-testing and mental health services.

LD 130 would further authorize the Department of Agriculture to establish maximum limits on PFAS in foods.

The bill faces further votes in Senate and House.

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