Cuomo Signs Robust PFAS Protections into Law

ALBANY, N.Y. – Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed into law legislation to phase out the use of toxic chemicals known as PFAS in firefighting foam. PFAS have been found to contaminate a significant portion of New York’s drinking water sources. These “forever chemicals” are highly mobile, spread quickly in the environment, do not break down easily, and have been linked to cancer and other health problems.

Earlier this month, the Governor also directed the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to take immediate action to ban the aerial use of chlorpyrifos – a pesticide linked to learning disabilities in children. Another important toxics bill – the Child Safe Products Act, which would require reporting on the presence of many chemicals of concern in children’s products – has yet to be signed into law.

A statement follows from Rich Schrader, New York Legislative Director at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):

“There is literally nothing more important than the health and safety of our communities. With these robust measures, New York is rightly standing up to the shameless chemical industry and protecting our brave men and women in uniform from needless exposure to harmful toxins. This is a victory for all New Yorkers and for those who put their lives on the line every day. Families across the state can now rest a bit easier.”

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The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.​