Section 1 Air Force report on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonates (PFOS) contamination at certain military installations
Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
An increasing number of communities across New York have reportedly identified the presence of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonates (PFOS), which can contaminate water and cause adverse health effects.
According to reports, levels of PFOA and PFOS have been detected in the public and private water supplies in the cities of Newburgh and Plattsburgh and the towns of Hoosick Falls and Petersburgh, New York. Public and private wells in these communities are being tested by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the New York Department of Health (DOH).
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified PFOA as an “emerging contaminant”, and in 2009, the EPA issued an updated provisional health advisory for drinking water of 70 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS.
Report—
In general— Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Air Force, in collaboration with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall submit to Congress a report on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonates (PFOS) contamination at Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, Plattsburgh, Hoosick Falls, and Petersburgh, New York, and any other sites the Secretary determines appropriate.
Elements— The report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following elements:
An accelerated timeline and status on the inspection and cleanup at Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, Plattsburgh, Hoosick Falls, and Petersburgh, New York.
An update on the Air Force’s efforts to identify and notify everyone potentially affected or impacted by the contamination.
An assessment of the Air Force’s role, if any, in the new contaminations.
A summary of the Air Force’s support, where appropriate, for the EPA with respect to the latest contaminations.
A detailed proposal mandating the financial compensation and reimbursement for cleanup, water accessibility interim programs, and water source filtration initiatives in the event the Air Force is responsible for the contamination pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).