I was pleased to see the article “MAWC seeks damages for contamination of water system” (March 16, TribLIVE) about the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County filing a lawsuit against chemical companies for allegedly making toxic substances that contaminate local water systems. Among the chemicals cited as being produced is the deeply harmful PFAS, which can be found in everyday household items such as clothes, rugs and food packaging. From there, they can end up in our bodies. These toxins can then cause fertility issues, cancer and other diseases.
What’s worse, PFAS have been nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they do not break down and build up over time in our bloodstream and the environment. PFAS are found in water, air, fish and soil across the United States and the world.
Considering the danger, it’s great to see action on this issue — but more can be done. States like Minnesota, Maine, Vermont and Connecticut have already started to take action on PFAS. Congress can go further to solve this problem by passing the PFAS Action Act. That legislation can provide all Americans with protections from these toxins. Nobody should have to live with forever chemicals that can make their lives worse.
Ashleigh Deemer
Squirrel Hill