Alabama House Bill HB541

Alabama 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/25
• Refer: 4/8/25

Caption

Safe Drinking Water Act; environmental management department required to investigate for PFAS; private right of action against responsible persons established

Impact

The introduction of HB541 will enhance the state's regulatory framework concerning water quality and environmental management. By empowering ADEM to take action against PFAS contamination, the bill is expected to provide a clearer pathway for utilities to recover costs related to remediation from responsible parties. This adjustment aims to mitigate the financial burden on public water utilities, which often rely on state and public funds to address these environmental challenges. The bill is intended to promote the safety and reliability of drinking water across Alabama, thereby positively impacting public health and welfare.

Summary

House Bill 541 (HB541) aims to amend the Alabama Safe Drinking Water Act of 1977 by addressing the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as 'forever chemicals,' in public water systems. The bill mandates that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) investigate reports of PFAS contamination in drinking water sources and allows for civil actions against responsible parties. This legislation responds to growing health concerns and the significant costs associated with federal PFAS regulations, which threaten human health and the operation of Alabama's drinking water utilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB541 relate to the implications of liability limitations for those responsible for the release of PFAS. The bill suggests that certain persons may be exempt from liability if their discharges comply with existing permits. This exemption has raised concerns among environmental advocates and public health officials who fear it could undermine accountability for preventing PFAS pollution. The proposed amendments to existing laws could also result in debates about local versus state regulatory authority in addressing water contamination issues.