Michigan Senate Bill SB0298

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/25
• Refer: 5/13/25

Caption

Health: screening; pilot program to assess the effects of PFAS on certain participants; provide for. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding pt. 57A. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0299'25

Impact

The proposed pilot program would involve eligible research institutions that receive funding to conduct studies on PFAS exposure. It is explicitly structured to target individuals who lived in affected areas when they were children, ensuring that research is focused on the populations most at risk. The establishment of this program and the accompanying fund demonstrates a legislative commitment to addressing health impacts from environmental contaminants, potentially leading to more informed public health policies and regulations in the future.

Summary

Senate Bill 0298 aims to amend Michigan's Public Health Code to establish a pilot program focused on the assessment of the effects of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on specified participants. By adding Part 57A to the Public Health Code, the bill recognizes and addresses the growing public health concern surrounding PFAS exposure, particularly through contaminated water supplies. The program is designed to gather data on health impacts and increase awareness of PFAS incidences in the public water supply and household wells in designated counties.

Contention

While the intent behind SB 0298 is to positively impact public health, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of the program. Critics could argue about funding adequacy, the effectiveness of the pilot program, and the potential bureaucratic processes required for research institutions to participate. Moreover, some stakeholders may question whether the established thresholds for qualifying participants and the methodologies employed will be adequate to thoroughly assess the impacts of PFAS exposure.