Summary of HR 1938: Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act

Bill Number: HR 1938

Introduced On: March 06, 2025

Current Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Jennifer L. McClellan

Cosponsors: 15 additional members from both parties

Purpose and Intent

The Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act aims to address the environmental and health concerns associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) discharges from Department of Defense (DoD) facilities. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health issues, including cancer and liver damage, and are persistent in the environment, leading to contamination of water sources.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions designed to mitigate PFAS contamination:

1. Prevention Measures:

   • Mandates the DoD to implement measures to prevent the discharge of PFAS into the environment from military installations.

2. Monitoring and Reporting:

   • Requires regular monitoring of PFAS levels in water sources near military facilities and the reporting of these findings to relevant environmental agencies.

3. Remediation Plans:

   • Establishes a framework for the development and execution of remediation plans to clean up existing PFAS contamination at DoD sites.

4. Funding and Resources:

   • Allocates federal funding to support the implementation of prevention and remediation efforts, ensuring that adequate resources are available for effective action.

5. Collaboration with State Agencies:

   • Encourages collaboration between the DoD and state environmental agencies to enhance the effectiveness of PFAS management strategies.

Who Would Be Affected

• Department of Defense: The bill directly impacts the operations of the DoD, requiring changes in how they manage and monitor PFAS discharges.
• Local Communities: Residents near military installations may benefit from improved water quality and reduced health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
• Environmental Agencies: State and federal environmental agencies will play a crucial role in monitoring and enforcing compliance with the new regulations.

Procedural Aspects

• Committee Referrals: Upon introduction, the bill was referred to:
  • The Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment
  • The Committee on Armed Services
  • The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

This multi-committee referral indicates the bill's broad implications across various sectors, including environmental protection and military operations.

• Next Steps: The timeline for further consideration and potential voting on the bill will be determined by the Speaker of the House.

Conclusion

The Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act represents a proactive approach to addressing the environmental and health challenges posed by PFAS. By instituting preventive measures and requiring accountability from the DoD, the bill seeks to protect public health and preserve water quality in communities surrounding military facilities.