News, Court Updates, and Legal Status of PFAS Lawsuits and Litigation
DuPont’s historic $2.5B PFAS settlement with New Jersey.
August 5, 2025 —DuPont’s historic $2.5B PFAS settlement with New Jersey represents a watershed moment in environmental litigation, as the chemical manufacturing giant takes responsibility for decades of contamination by agreeing to an unprecedented cleanup and remediation program spanning multiple polluted locations across the state.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin revealed details of the landmark agreement on Monday, following intense courtroom proceedings centered on toxic chemical releases at the Chamber Works facility, a controversial industrial complex in Salem County that has been a focal point of PFAS contamination concerns for generations. The $2.5 billion settlement stands as the largest environmental damages agreement ever secured by an individual state, marking a decisive victory for New Jersey’s environmental protection efforts.
Under the comprehensive settlement terms, DuPont and its associated companies will deliver $875 million in direct damages and abatement funding to New Jersey. These resources will be strategically allocated across several critical environmental initiatives, including:
- Chamber Works (Salem County) – A legacy manufacturing site requiring extensive soil and groundwater remediation
- Pompton Lakes Works (Passaic County) – Where decades of industrial operations left lasting contamination
- Parlin site (Middlesex County) – A former chemical manufacturing facility requiring substantial cleanup
- Repauno site (Gloucester County) – An industrial complex with significant environmental impact
The agreement’s financial framework includes the establishment of a substantial $1.2 billion remediation fund, complemented by a $475 million reserve fund. This dual-fund structure provides crucial financial security, ensuring that New Jersey taxpayers won’t bear the burden of cleanup costs should any corporate entities involved face financial difficulties or dissolution. The settlement’s payment schedule extends over a 25-year period, guaranteeing sustained funding for long-term environmental restoration efforts.
DuPont Reaches $27M Settlement in New York PFAS Contamination Case.
July 11, 2025 —Chemical giant DuPont has agreed to pay $27 million to settle a class-action lawsuit over drinking water contamination in Hoosick Falls, New York. The settlement, announced on July 10, 2025, comes after nearly nine years of legal battles and brings the total recovery in the case to $92.25 million. DuPont was the last remaining defendant in the lawsuit after Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, Honeywell International, and 3M agreed to a $65.25 million settlement in 2021. The agreement was reached just days before a jury trial was set to begin and is now awaiting final approval from U.S. District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino.
The lawsuit, filed in 2016, alleged that manufacturing facilities in the area had used foam containing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) since the late 1960s, which seeped into the local air and groundwater. These “forever chemicals,” known for not degrading naturally in the environment, have been linked to serious health issues including liver damage, immune system problems, and certain cancers. The settlement allocates approximately $35 million for property losses due to contamination and adds $6 million to an existing 10-year medical monitoring program for affected residents. The case gained attention after local resident Michael Hickey raised concerns following his father’s death from kidney cancer in 2013, eventually leading to the EPA declaring the village’s drinking water unsafe.
Judge Awards $95.8 Million To MDL Firm Attorneys.
November 25, 2024 — A South Carolina federal judge awarded nearly $96 million in fees and costs Friday to lead counsel representing public water systems for securing a $316.5 million settlement with BASF Corp. and $750 million with Tyco Fire Products LP over forever chemicals.
U.S. District Judge Richard M. Gergel approved an unopposed fee request of $85.3 million and $10.5 million in costs for reaching the BASF and Tyco settlements this year. The fee represents 8% of both deals combined.
The settlements resolve claims against Tyco, its parent Johnson Controls International PLC, and Chemguard Inc. regarding contamination from their aqueous film-forming foam containing PFAS “forever chemicals.” BASF, which settled for $316.5 million in May, maintains no wrongdoing as successor to Ciba Corp., which made the chemical Lodyne used in the foam.
As noted in the fee request, the plaintiffs’ executive committee dedicated nearly 500,000 hours to the litigation, resulting in unprecedented drinking water settlements in U.S. history, according to Judge Gergel. He commended the attorneys’ expertise and handling of complex issues, particularly given the multiple defendants involved.
The plaintiffs faced significant challenges in proving well contamination from foam products, demonstrating PFAS toxicity, and establishing defendants’ awareness of PFAS risks, the judge explained.
“Additionally, only highly qualified counsel could have navigated these issues,” Judge Gergel noted, praising the quality of legal representation throughout.
The judge acknowledged that managing trial preparation, settlements, and bellwether cases required extensive scientific and legal knowledge, including understanding public water systems operations.
“Class counsel and the [plaintiffs’ executive committee] are some of the most qualified mass tort litigators in America,” the judge stated, emphasizing that different attorneys might not have achieved similar results.
Despite COVID-19 challenges, the committee secured settlements with major companies including 3M, DuPont, BASF, and Tyco.
The MDL encompasses over 10,000 cases across five categories: public water providers, individuals harmed by exposure, medical monitoring seekers, property owners, and states pursuing natural resource damages.
BASF and Tyco’s agreements followed 3M’s $12.5 billion and DuPont, Chemours and Corteva’s $1.2 billion settlements.
The public water systems’ class is represented by Michael A. London (Douglas & London PC), Scott Summy (Baron & Budd PC), Paul J. Napoli (Napoli Shkolnik PLLC), and Joe Rice (Motley Rice LLC).
Tyco and Chemguard’s counsel includes David E. Dukes and Amanda S. Kitts of Nelson Mullins, while BASF is represented by DLA Piper’s Matthew A. Holian and Jessica Wilson.
The MDL case (2:18-mn-02873) continues in South Carolina’s U.S. District Court.
3M seeks PFAS Firefighters Case Paused for MDL
August 20, 2024 – 3M is asking a Connecticut federal court to stay a proposed class action lawsuit by firefighters who wore “turn out” gear laden with PFAS chemicals known as “forever chemicals” until there is a decision made to transfer the case to a multidistrict litigation in South Carolina.
3M is arguing that the case that was filed on June 25, has only began, and discovery hasn’t started yet.
“Therefore, the stay will not meaningfully delay resolution of the case,” 3M said. “To the contrary, if
the case is transferred, then plaintiffs will have the benefit of the coordinated pretrial proceedings
and discovery, including [turnout gear]-specific discovery, already underway in the MDL.”
“By comparison to plaintiffs, defendants will suffer substantial prejudice absent a stay,” 3M said. “A
key premise of the MDL mechanism is that defendants and other parties confronted with a mass of
similar cases in different jurisdictions should not be forced to fight a multi-front war — responding to
complaints and briefing pretrial motions and engaging in discovery separately in each action — where
they face a risk of inconsistent rulings.”
This MDL contains more than 10,000 cases of alleged damages caused by PFAS chemicals.
Case: Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Connecticut et al. v. 3M Company et
al., number 3:24-cv-01101, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut.
New California PFAS lawsuit follows EPA’s drinking water rules
April 23, 2024 — A group of public drinking water systems in California has recently filed a fresh legal action against manufacturers of harmful “forever chemicals.” This lawsuit is noteworthy because it is one of the first to reference the newly implemented regulations by the Biden administration, which have set stringent limits on these chemicals in drinking water.
The Orange County Water District, along with more than a dozen other water utilities in California, submitted the lawsuit in the federal court of Los Angeles on Friday. The defendants named in the lawsuit are seven manufacturers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which include companies like Dynax America Corp. and Arkema Inc. The primary allegations made by the plaintiffs include negligence on the part of the manufacturers and the creation of a nuisance by polluting water sources with PFAS. In addition to holding the manufacturers accountable, the lawsuit also seeks financial compensation to remediate the contamination caused by these chemicals.
By leveraging the new regulations put forth by the Biden administration, the public drinking water systems in California aim to address the harmful impact of PFAS on their water supplies. These “forever chemicals” have been a cause for concern due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects. The lawsuit serves as a significant step towards holding manufacturers responsible for their role in contaminating drinking water with PFAS.
This legal action reflects the growing recognition of the need for stronger regulations and accountability when it comes to toxic chemicals in our water systems. It highlights the proactive approach taken by public water utilities in California to safeguard the well-being of their communities. By pursuing this lawsuit, they hope to not only secure financial support for remediation efforts but also send a message to manufacturers that they will be held liable for their actions.
In conclusion, the lawsuit filed by public drinking water systems in California against manufacturers of PFAS marks an important development in addressing the issue of harmful chemicals in our water supplies. With support from the newly established regulations, the plaintiffs seek to bring about accountability and remediation for the contamination caused by these “forever chemicals.” This legal action underscores the commitment of water utilities to protect their communities from the adverse effects of PFAS pollution.
The legal case is anticipated to be moved to a federal court located in South Carolina, where numerous comparable lawsuits have been consolidated. A trial involving multiple defendants mentioned in Orange County’s lawsuit, filed by water systems throughout the United States, is scheduled for September. The ongoing litigation in South Carolina has already led to several significant settlements, totaling more than $11 billion, between water systems and chemical companies such as 3M, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Chemours, Corteva, and Johnson Controls subsidiary Tyco Fire Products.
The specific case is titled Orange County Water District et al. v. AGC Chemicals Americas Inc. et al and has been assigned to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, under case number 8:24-cv-00820.
Biden-Harris Administration Finalizes Critical Rule to Clean up PFAS Contamination to Protect Public Health
EPA action designates two widely used PFAS as hazardous substances under the Superfund law, improving transparency and accountability to clean up PFAS contamination in communities
April 19, 2024
Contact Information – EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov)
WASHINGTON – Today, April 19, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking another step in its efforts to protect people from the health risks posed by exposure to “forever chemicals” in communities across the country. Exposure to per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has been linked to cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children. This final rule will designate two widely used PFAS chemicals, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as Superfund, and will help ensure that polluters pay to clean up their contamination.
This final action will address PFOA and PFOS contamination by enabling investigation and cleanup of these harmful chemicals and ensuring that leaks, spills, and other releases are reported. This action builds on the recently finalized standards to protect people and communities from PFAS contamination in drinking water and represents the latest step the Biden-Harris Administration is taking to protect public health and welfare and the environment under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap and to prevent cancer before it starts through the Biden Cancer Moonshot.
In addition to the final rule, EPA is issuing a separate CERCLA enforcement discretion policy that makes clear that EPA will focus enforcement on parties who significantly contributed to the release of PFAS chemicals into the environment, including parties that have manufactured PFAS or used PFAS in the manufacturing process, federal facilities, and other industrial parties.
“President Biden understands the threat that “forever chemicals” pose to the health of families across the country. That’s why EPA launched its PFAS Strategic Roadmap, a whole-of-agency approach to protecting public health and addressing the harm to communities overburdened by PFAS pollution,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Designating these chemicals under our Superfund authority will allow EPA to address more contaminated sites, take earlier action, and expedite cleanups, all while ensuring polluters pay for the costs to clean up pollution threatening the health of communities.”
EPA is taking this step to designate PFOA and PFOS under CERCLA because both chemicals meet the statutory criteria for designation as hazardous substances. Under the rule, entities are required to immediately report releases of PFOA and PFOS that meet or exceed the reportable quantity of one pound within a 24-hour period to the National Response Center, State, Tribal, and local emergency responders. The designation of PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA enables the agency to use one of its strongest enforcement tools to compel polluters to pay for or conduct investigations and cleanup, rather than taxpayers. Designation is especially important as delay in addressing contamination allows PFOA and PFOS more time to migrate in water and soil, worsening existing contamination.
The final rule also means that federal entities that transfer or sell their property must provide notice about the storage, release, or disposal of PFOA or PFOS on the property and guarantee that contamination has been cleaned up or, if needed, that additional cleanup will occur in the future. It will also lead the Department of Transportation to list and regulate these substances as hazardous materials under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act.
“It’s long past time for the polluters who poisoned all of us to be held responsible. This comes too late for all the people who were poisoned without their knowledge or consent and have paid the price for one of the greatest environmental crimes in history,” said Ken Cook, President and co-founder of Environmental Working Group. “But today’s designation of PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is the first step to bring justice to those who have been harmed. By putting the needs of the people ahead of the profits of the polluters, the Biden EPA is once again delivering for the American people.”
This final action is based on significant scientific evidence that these substances, when released into the environment, may present a substantial danger to public health or welfare or the environment. PFOA and PFOS can accumulate and persist in the human body for long periods of time, and evidence from scientific studies demonstrate that exposure to PFOA and PFOS is linked to adverse health effects.
“This is another important step by EPA to protect people and communities from harmful PFAS chemicals, including legacy PFAS contamination across the U.S. The science is clear that PFAS chemicals are linked to a wide range of health harms including cancer, damage to cardiovascular and immune systems, poor pregnancy outcomes, and effects on the developing child,” said Dr. Tracey Woodruff, Professor & Director, Program on Reproductive Health & the Environment (PRHE)/Environmental Research and Translation for Health at the University of California, San Francisco. “By listing PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Superfund Law, it means that these chemicals will have to be cleaned up from hazardous waste sites and polluters must pay the bill. This is great news for the many communities grappling with PFAS contamination – many of which are also low income and communities of color. This is another step toward protecting people from the health harms of this well-known toxic chemical.”
EPA’s Superfund program has worked effectively for more than 40 years to target and prioritize cleanups of the nation’s most contaminated sites that present unacceptable risks to human health and the environment. The Superfund program addresses more than 800 hazardous substances, including widespread, highly mobile, and persistent chemicals, like PFOA and PFOS. The program also promotes safer industrial practices that enhance community protections by reducing the likelihood of future releases. Additionally, cleanups allow communities to put land back into productive use, providing opportunities for jobs and economic growth.
In addition, EPA’s enforcement policy, consistent with EPA’s past practice over decades of implementing the law, will provide additional clarity on the agency’s intent not to pursue certain parties such as farmers, municipal landfills, water utilities, municipal airports, and local fire departments, where equitable factors do not support seeking CERCLA cleanup or costs. EPA has a proven track record of developing and applying enforcement discretion policies that are effective and well-received by stakeholders, ensuring entities that have contributed significant contamination are held accountable.
Biden-Harris Administration Takes Critical Action to Protect Communities from PFAS
In addition to efforts across the government, EPA has taken action under the agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap to control PFAS at its sources, hold polluters accountable, ensure science-based decision making, advance environmental justice, and address the impacts on disadvantaged communities. Since launching the Roadmap in 2021, EPA has taken a suite of actions to protect communities from exposure to “forever chemicals” including:
- Established first-ever national legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS: In April 2024, EPA finalized National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS which will protect 100 million people from PFAS exposure, prevent tens of thousands of serious illnesses, and save lives. This action complements the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to combatting PFAS pollution and delivering clean water.
- Dedicated $9 billion in funding to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants in drinking water: President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law secured the largest-ever investment in tackling PFAS pollution in drinking water. An additional $12 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supports general drinking water investments, including PFAS treatment. The investments are part of the Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities.
- Guidance on Destroying and Disposing of PFAS: EPA released updated Interim Guidance which outlines the best-available science on techniques and treatments that may be used to destroy or dispose of PFAS and PFAS-containing materials from non-consumer products, including aqueous film-forming foam for firefighting, and highlights innovation and emerging technologies that warrant further evaluation.
- Addressing on-going uses of PFAS: In January 2024 EPA finalized a rule that prevents companies from starting or resuming the manufacture or processing of 329 PFAS; released three methods to better measure PFAS in the environment; and announced the addition of seven PFAS to the list of chemicals covered by the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI), consistent with the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.
EPA will publish the Final Rule in the Federal Register shortly. The rule will be effective 60 days after the rule is published in the Federal Register.
New Jersey’s $393 Million Settlement for PFAS Pollution
February 15, 2024 — In a landmark case, the state of New Jersey has agreed to a groundbreaking settlement of $393 million to address the issue of PFAS pollution. This historic decision comes as a result of years of legal battles and extensive research into the harmful effects of PFAS chemicals on human health and the environment. In this article, we will delve into the details of the settlement, its implications for New Jersey residents, and the broader significance of this case in the fight against PFAS pollution.
Understanding PFAS Pollution
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in various industrial and consumer products due to their water and grease-resistant properties. They have been extensively used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and many other applications. However, their persistent nature and widespread use have led to the contamination of water sources, soil, and air, posing a significant threat to human health and the environment.
The Scope of the Settlement
The $393 million settlement reached by New Jersey will be used to address the extensive contamination caused by PFAS chemicals across the state. The funds will be allocated towards investigating and remediating contaminated sites, providing clean drinking water to affected communities, and conducting further research into the long-term effects of PFAS exposure.
PFAS Remediation Efforts
A significant portion of the settlement will be dedicated to identifying and remediating sites contaminated with PFAS chemicals. This includes industrial facilities, military bases, and other areas where the use or disposal of PFAS-containing products have led to pollution. The aim is to ensure that these sites are cleaned up and made safe for both human and ecological health.
PFAS Clean Water Initiatives
Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is a top priority in the settlement. A substantial portion of the funds will be used to install water treatment systems in communities affected by PFAS contamination. These systems will help remove PFAS chemicals from the water supply, providing residents with access to clean and uncontaminated water.
Health Studies and Monitoring for PFAS
The settlement also emphasizes the need for further research into the health effects of PFAS exposure. A portion of the funds will be allocated towards conducting comprehensive health studies to better understand the impact of PFAS chemicals on human health. Additionally, ongoing monitoring efforts will be implemented to track the levels of PFAS contamination and assess the effectiveness of remediation measures.
Holding PFAS Polluters Accountable
A crucial aspect of the settlement is the commitment to holding responsible parties accountable for the pollution caused by PFAS chemicals. The state of New Jersey will seek compensation from manufacturers and companies that have knowingly contributed to the contamination. This serves as a deterrent for future pollution and ensures that those responsible for the harm caused by PFAS chemicals are held liable.
Collaborative Efforts
The settlement in New Jersey sets a precedent for other states grappling with PFAS pollution. It highlights the importance of collaboration between government entities, environmental organizations, and affected communities in addressing this widespread issue. By working together, it becomes possible to advocate for stricter regulations and policies to prevent further contamination and protect public health.
National Implications for PFAS Pollution
The New Jersey settlement has far-reaching implications beyond the state’s borders. It underscores the urgent need for federal action to address PFAS pollution on a national level. The settlement serves as a powerful message to lawmakers and regulators, urging them to take decisive steps in regulating the use and disposal of PFAS chemicals to protect the health and well-being of all Americans.
Holding PFAS Polluters Accountable
New Jersey’s $393 million settlement for PFAS pollution represents a significant milestone in the fight against the harmful effects of these chemicals. By allocating funds towards remediation efforts, clean water initiatives, health studies, and holding polluters accountable, the state is taking a proactive approach to address the widespread contamination caused by PFAS chemicals. This landmark settlement serves as a powerful example for other states and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling environmental challenges. It is our hope that this settlement will pave the way for stronger regulations and a cleaner, safer future for all.
New Measures by Biden-Harris Administration to Safeguard Communities against Emerging Chemicals of Concern, including PFAS
February 2, 2024 — New regulations have been proposed to improve the ability of regulators to handle PFAS under the hazardous waste law in order to safeguard families throughout the country.
The latest actions by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aim to safeguard communities and the environment from potential health hazards associated with certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances, which are commonly used and have a long lifespan, are slow to break down and have been incorporated into various consumer, commercial, and industrial products. Scientific research has shown that exposure to PFAS can have negative health effects. To further address this issue nationwide, the EPA has put forth two proposed regulations. These initiatives align with President Biden’s goal of promoting public health and environmental justice.
According to EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, President Biden made a pledge from the beginning to tackle the issue of harmful forever chemicals and other new contaminants in order to safeguard communities from exposure. The recent actions taken by the EPA are a testament to their dedication to fulfilling the president’s promise. With the help of collaborative efforts with state co-regulators, the EPA aims to enhance their capacity to remediate PFAS contamination, hold responsible parties accountable, and promote public health safeguards.
According to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, states such as New Mexico play a crucial role in safeguarding communities against long-lasting chemicals. She emphasizes the need for more stringent federal regulations to effectively address these pollutants. Governor Grisham also credits New Mexico’s proactive stance in holding polluters responsible by treating PFAS as hazardous waste, which has led to the EPA’s proposed rules.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is suggesting a change to the definition of hazardous waste in relation to cleanups at authorized hazardous waste facilities. This amendment aims to ensure that EPA’s regulations accurately reflect their and authorized states’ power to mandate cleanup of all substances intended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), including newly identified harmful chemicals such as PFAS. Presently, the regulations do not precisely and completely represent the authorities given to EPA by Congress.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put forth a proposal to revise its RCRA regulations by including various PFAS compounds as hazardous constituents. These PFAS will now be included in the list of substances to be considered during facility assessments. If deemed necessary, they will also undergo further investigation and be subject to cleanup through the corrective action process at hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities.
The new regulations aim to enhance safeguards for communities and drinking water sources in close proximity to the 1,740 licensed hazardous waste facilities throughout the country. According to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities are obligated to take corrective measures to prevent harm to human health and the environment. This includes investigating and remediating hazardous leaks into the soil, groundwater, surface water, and air. The cleanup of hazardous waste is a critical aspect of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) commitment to environmental justice and plays a vital role in promoting public health by addressing disparities in access to a clean and healthy environment.
In the upcoming weeks, EPA plans to release these proposals on the Federal Register website. The “Definition of Hazardous Waste Applicable to Corrective Action from Solid Waste Management Units” rule will be available for public feedback for a period of 30 days, while the “Listing of Specific PFAS as Hazardous Constituents” rule will be open for 60 days. After publication, EPA invites comments on both proposals.
Source:
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/biden-harris-administration-announces-new-steps-protect-communities-pfas-and-other
Colorado Takes Legal Action Against PFAS Contaminated Base Water Supply
January 30, 2024 — A Colorado water district has filed a lawsuit claiming that a nearby military base has contaminated their water supply. The district alleges that the base’s activities have led to the presence of harmful chemicals in the water, posing a risk to public health. The lawsuit seeks compensation for the costs of treating and monitoring the contaminated water, as well as measures to prevent further contamination.
The water district argues that the contamination is a direct result of the military base’s activities, which include the use of hazardous materials and improper waste disposal. They claim that these actions have not only compromised the quality of the water supply but also endangered the well-being of the local community. In addition to seeking financial compensation, the district is calling for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent future contamination incidents.
Need for Complete Transparency on Bases
The lawsuit also highlights the need for increased transparency and accountability from the military base. The water district asserts that the base should be held responsible for the environmental damage caused by their actions and should take immediate steps to rectify the situation. By addressing these concerns, the district hopes to ensure the long-term safety and well-being of the community’s water supply.
The water district’s lawsuit brings attention to the potential consequences of military activities on local water supplies. It underscores the importance of proper waste management and the need for stricter regulations to prevent future contamination incidents. By holding the military base accountable and advocating for increased transparency, the district aims to safeguard the community’s water supply and protect public health.
Connecticut Takes Legal Action Against Chemical Manufacturers for PFAS Water Contamination
January 26, 2023 — Connecticut has filed lawsuits against 28 chemical manufacturers, including 3M and Chemours, for knowingly contaminating the state’s water and natural resources with toxic PFAS “forever chemicals”. The lawsuits aim to hold these companies accountable for the PFAS chemical contamination originating from aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting and chemicals added to consumer products such as food packaging, cookware, carpeting, upholstery, clothing, and cosmetics.
The Dangers of PFAS Chemicals
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals are highly persistent and can contaminate the environment indefinitely. These toxic chemicals can travel through the environment, including into drinking water sources, and accumulate in human blood. They have been linked to severe adverse health effects, including an increased risk of various cancers, liver damage, birth defects, decreased vaccine response, high cholesterol, infertility, and diabetes.
Connecticut’s PFAS Lawsuits and Demands
The lawsuits filed by Connecticut seek both injunctive and monetary relief. The state demands that the companies dispose of their toxic chemical stocks, abate all pollution in Connecticut, disclose all research related to PFAS, and compensate the state for past and future remediation and testing expenses. The complaints also seek penalties for violations of state laws and compensation for all expenses incurred by the state in responding to PFAS pollution.
Manufacturers’ Knowledge and Concealment
Connecticut alleges that the chemical manufacturers were aware of the dangers of PFAS chemicals as early as the 1950s but chose to hide the evidence and deceive the public. Internal documents and studies conducted by companies like 3M and DuPont revealed the toxicity and persistence of PFAS chemicals. However, these companies continued to manufacture and promote products containing PFAS, misleading the public about their safety.
PFAS Contamination in Connecticut
PFAS contamination in Connecticut is widespread, with thousands of sites affected. Public water systems in Manchester and Norwalk have been contaminated, and PFAS has been detected in rivers such as the Connecticut, Farmington, Hockanum, Naugatuck, and Quinnipiac. The state has issued PFAS-related consumption advisories for fish caught in several rivers. AFFF firefighting foam has also caused contamination in locations like Killingworth, Canton, and Groton.
Government Actions and Bans on PFAS
Connecticut has taken several measures to address PFAS contamination. Governor Ned Lamont established the Interagency PFAS Task Force in 2019, which developed a statewide PFAS strategy. In 2021, the state banned the use of AFFF in most circumstances and required the implementation of an AFFF take-back program. Over 35,000 gallons of AFFF concentrate have been recovered from municipal fire departments through this program.
The Companies’ Response and Legal Defense
3M and DuPont, two of the major defendants in the lawsuits, have responded to the allegations. 3M stated that it will defend itself in court or through negotiated resolutions, emphasizing that the understanding of PFAS has evolved over time. DuPont’s defense rests on the distinction between its legacy parent company and its independent spin-offs, claiming that DuPont de Nemours, the named defendant, has never manufactured PFAS or AFFF.
Support and Impact on Firefighters
The lawsuits have received support from firefighters and their associations, who are at increased risk of occupational cancers due to exposure to PFAS. The chemicals are present not only in AFFF firefighting foam but also in the turnout gear that protects firefighters. Firefighters are calling for the removal of PFAS-containing products from their equipment to reduce their risk of cancer.
The Potential Impact and Outcome
The potential damages from these lawsuits against chemical manufacturers are significant. Previous settlements with major manufacturers reached billions of dollars. Connecticut aims to make the companies pay for the damage caused by PFAS contamination, remove PFAS-containing products from the market, and find safer alternatives. The state also seeks to ensure the safety of firefighters and families by holding the companies accountable.
Other States must take action
Connecticut’s legal action against chemical manufacturers for PFAS water contamination demonstrates the state’s commitment to protecting its residents and natural resources. The lawsuits can show other states how to hold these companies responsible for their knowledge of the dangers of PFAS chemicals and their failure to take appropriate action. By seeking both injunctive and monetary relief, Connecticut hopes to remediate the pollution caused by PFAS, compensate for past and future expenses, and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
October 30, 2023 – The state of Delaware has recently made a shocking accusation against 3M and several other companies. According to the claims, these companies have contaminated the land and water of Delaware with firefighting foam containing toxic “forever chemicals.”
The allegations further suggest that these companies have been concealing the dangers posed by these substances for decades, jeopardizing the health of Delaware’s citizens and the environment.
3M Not the only Accused Companies
Delaware has named 3M as the primary culprit in the contamination scandal. However, it is not the only company under scrutiny. A dozen other companies have also been accused of contributing to the pollution of Delaware’s land and water. The exact extent of each company’s involvement is yet to be determined, but the state is determined to hold them all accountable for their actions.
The accused companies include major players in various industries, such as chemical manufacturing, firefighting equipment, and aerospace. This wide range of industries highlights the potential widespread impact of the contamination and the need for comprehensive investigation and remediation efforts.
“Forever Chemicals” and Their Dangers
The firefighting foam in question contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” These chemicals are classified as contaminants of emerging concern due to their persistence in the environment and their potential to accumulate in living organisms.
PFAS have been linked to a range of adverse health effects, including liver damage, immune system dysfunction, and certain types of cancer. They are also known to bioaccumulate in wildlife, leading to potential ecological disruptions. Given their resistance to degradation, the long-term consequences of PFAS contamination are a cause for serious concern.
Delaware’s PFAS Environmental Impact
The contamination of Delaware’s land and water with PFAS has had far-reaching consequences for the state’s environment. The chemicals have infiltrated the soil, seeped into groundwater, and found their way into rivers and streams. As a result, numerous ecosystems have been affected, and the wildlife that depends on these habitats is at risk.
Delaware’s residents are also directly impacted by the contamination. Those living near or dependent on affected water sources may be exposed to PFAS through drinking water and local food sources. The long-term health implications of this exposure are still being investigated, but the potential risks are alarming.
Decades of Concealment by PFAS Makers
One of the most concerning aspects of the Delaware contamination scandal is the alleged concealment of information by the accused companies. The accusations suggest that these companies were aware of the dangers posed by PFAS but chose to withhold this information from the public and regulatory authorities.
This concealment, if proven true, raises serious ethical and legal questions. It highlights the need for transparency and accountability in industries that handle potentially hazardous substances. Delaware’s accusations aim to shed light on this alleged misconduct and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
PFAS Legal Action and the Road Ahead
Delaware’s accusations have set the stage for legal battles against the accused companies. The state is seeking compensation for the environmental damage caused by the contamination and the potential health risks faced by its residents. The outcome of these legal proceedings will have significant implications for both the affected parties and the broader issue of corporate responsibility for environmental damage.
In addition to legal action, Delaware is also actively working on remediation efforts to address the contamination. These efforts involve extensive testing, monitoring, and cleanup initiatives. The state is determined to restore its environment and protect its residents from the long-term effects of PFAS exposure.
The Dangers of PFAS-containing firefighting foam
The contamination of Delaware’s land and water with PFAS-containing firefighting foam is a grave environmental and public health concern. The allegations against 3M and other companies highlight the need for stringent regulations, transparency, and accountability in industries dealing with potentially hazardous substances.
Delaware’s accusations serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible corporate behavior and the duty to protect the environment and public health. As legal proceedings unfold and remediation efforts continue, it is crucial that the lessons learned from this contamination scandal are applied to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Page: PFAS Litigation | Current Legal Cases Updated on August 5, 2025