On June 1, the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) and Attorney General filed suit against 21 “forever chemical” manufacturers for costs associated with environmental monitoring and cleanup necessary to combat PFAS contamination. According to the state, the health risks posed by PFAS, such as cancer, have been public knowledge for decades, yet companies continue to produce and distribute products containing these non-biodegradable chemicals, prioritizing “profits over public health.”
NMED is particularly concerned about “forever chemicals” given that nearly 80% of residents rely on underground aquifers and thus are susceptible to PFAS contamination via the water supply. New Mexico is not alone in its bid to hold chemical manufacturers accountable, as other states including Rhode Island and California have filed similar lawsuits.
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