WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pennsylvania has received a $37.5 million boost from the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, announced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey and John Fetterman, along with Representatives Dwight Evans, Madeleine Dean, and Chrissy Houlahan. The funding, allocated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is specifically targeted at detecting and eliminating Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) from the state’s water supply.
PFAS, commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their persistence in the environment and human body, have been linked to various health concerns. Their presence in drinking water has emerged as a pressing issue for many communities across Pennsylvania, prompting urgent action from both state and federal levels.
Senator Casey underscored the initiative’s alignment with Pennsylvania’s constitutional promise of pure water for all its inhabitants, while Senator Fetterman highlighted the project’s broader implications for equity and environmental justice. “This isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about making sure no community is left behind,” Fetterman stated, emphasizing the need to protect public water systems, especially in small and disadvantaged communities.
The allocation of these funds is a direct result of the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which aims to modernize America’s infrastructure and ensure the provision of essential services, such as clean drinking water. Congressman Evans expressed his satisfaction with the act’s execution, noting the critical role of federal funding in meeting new clean water standards and addressing PFAS contamination.
Representative Dean stressed the importance of this financial commitment in fulfilling the state’s constitutional obligation to safeguard its citizens’ right to clean water. She also pointed out the long overdue need to confront the dangers posed by ‘forever chemicals’ to communities within Pennsylvania.
The investment marks a historic step towards environmental justice and public health protection within the state. By focusing on the eradication of PFAS from drinking water, Pennsylvania sets a precedent for comprehensive action against pollutants that pose a significant risk to both the environment and human well-being. This initiative not only addresses immediate health concerns but also lays the groundwork for sustainable water management practices that will benefit future generations.
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