Stevens introduces bipartisan bill to fund wastewater projects, address PFAS contamination

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Michigan, has introduced a new bill aimed at upgrading wastewater systems and addressing PFAS contamination.

The bill, known as the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Assistance Act, was introduced Monday with bipartisan support. U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pennsylvania, was the other lead legislator.

Stevens called clean water “essential” for the health of all Americans and the American economy.

“Michigan knows all too well the impact of contaminants like PFAS on our communities. This legislation will help utilities deploy next-generation wastewater treatment technologies, modernize infrastructure, and keep water safe and affordable,” Stevens said in a statement.

The Environmental Working Group says there are now more than 9,500 confirmed PFAS-contaminated sites across the United States, including at least one in all 50 states, Washington D.C. and two American territories. MPART is tracking 379 confirmed contamination sites or areas of interest in Michigan.