Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB7194

Introduced
2/1/24  
Refer
2/1/24  

Caption

PFAS Accountability Act of 2024

Impact

The bill asserts that individuals significantly exposed to PFAS may bring claims against manufacturers responsible for their exposure. Courts may award medical monitoring costs to affected individuals, thereby shifting the financial burden of monitoring from the victims to the manufacturers. Additionally, the bill presumes exposure based on the manufacturing processes from which PFAS arises, creating a more streamlined path for claims in these cases. This change positions the legislation as a significant modification to existing state and federal laws regarding environmental toxins and their health impacts.

Summary

House Bill 7194, known as the PFAS Accountability Act of 2024, focuses on amending the Toxic Substances Control Act to establish a federal cause of action for individuals significantly exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This legislation aims to provide legal recourse for those affected by PFAS exposure, which has been linked to various chronic health issues, including cancer and reproductive harms. It also seeks to promote accountability from manufacturers by holding them responsible for the harmful effects of PFAS they produce.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 7194 highlight potential areas of contention, particularly concerning the implications for manufacturers and the balance of regulatory power. While proponents argue that it establishes essential protections for public health and environmental safety, critics could raise concerns about the economic impact on affected industries and the feasibility of managing and mitigating liability claims. Further, the bill does not preempt any existing state laws, leaving open questions regarding jurisdiction and enforcement of state versus federal regulations regarding PFAS.

Companion Bills

US SB3725

Same As PFAS Accountability Act of 2024

Previously Filed As

US SB3725

PFAS Accountability Act of 2024

US HB8074

Forever Chemical Regulation and Accountability Act of 2024

US SB4187

Forever Chemical Regulation and Accountability Act of 2024

US HB6805

PFAS Action Act of 2023

US HB8092

Protecting Communities from Plastics Act of 2024

US AB1423

Product safety: PFAS: artificial turf or synthetic surfaces.

US HB3639

VET PFAS Act Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS Act

US HB7775

PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2024

US SB4186

Banning Toxics from Plastic Bottles Act of 2024

US HB8076

Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act of 2024

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