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Maine congressional delegation introduces bill to support farmers affected by ‘forever chemicals’

By Alexis Wells
File photo
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine

Maine's congressional delegation renewed its push for federal support for farmers affected by the substances known as forever chemicals.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine 1st District, reintroduced the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act, which would offer grants to states that could be used in various ways to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, in farmland. 

If passed, the legislation would boost funding for soil and water testing, monitor PFAS levels in individuals’ blood, and upgrade equipment to help farmers stay profitable. It would also support farmer education programs, establish a USDA task force to direct resources through existing programs and provide states with technical assistance to coordinate an effective contamination response.

The bill was introduced by U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine and U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, D-2nd District.  

About forever chemicals

PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that are used in industry and consumer products and can lead to serious health effects, including cancer, reproductive and developmental harms, and weakened immune systems. 

PFAS were first detected in farm fields in the state in 2016. The practice of using sludge was banned in Maine in 2022.

In Maine, there have been more than 30,000 PFAS records at nearly 250 sites across the state.

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