Last week, Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin took a decisive stance by vetoing a crucial bipartisan water bill aimed at addressing PFAS contamination, which has been a growing concern for residents across the state.
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are found in various products, including cookware and stain-resistant clothing. The chemicals are linked to multiple health problems and are not easily broken down in nature.
Municipalities across Wisconsin including, Madison, Wausau, Marinette, and the town of Campell, are struggling with PFAS contamination in their groundwater. The state Department of Natural Resources has issued an advisory warning people to limit their fish consumption from the bay of Green Bay and portions of the Peshtigo, Oconto, and Menominee rivers due to their PFAS contamination.
After Governor Evers vetoed the $125 million bipartisan bill, he released a press statement demanding $140 million for PFAS and healthcare in Western Wisconsin. The funding Governor Evers is requesting gives authority to the DNR, an unelected body, to create rules on determining financial liability for PFAS contamination.
The $140 million also includes provisions for healthcare in Western Wisconsin after hospital closures. Governor Evers said the funds could support “OB-GYN services, mental and substance use treatment, urgent care, and more.” OB-GYNs can perform abortions in the state of Wisconsin.
Governor Evers vetoed another GOP-backed clean water bill that would have limited the Department of Natural Resources, another unelected body, authority to go after businesses that work with PFAS in their products.
