Requires DEP and Drinking Water Quality Institute to perform study concerning regulation and treatment of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
If enacted, AB A2326 would significantly influence state policies regarding water safety and environmental protections. By requiring a systematic study of PFAS regulation, the bill underscores the state's commitment to addressing emerging contaminants in drinking water. The findings, due within 24 months of the bill's enactment, will likely inform future legislation and standards related to water quality, thereby enhancing public health protections and advancing the quality of drinking water across New Jersey.
Assembly Bill A2326 is a legislative proposal aimed at addressing the regulation and treatment of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water within the state of New Jersey. The bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in collaboration with the Drinking Water Quality Institute, conduct a comprehensive study assessing the feasibility of establishing maximum contaminant levels for PFAS in drinking water. This assessment is intended to cover the entire class of PFAS or specified subclasses rather than focusing solely on individual compounds. Furthermore, it mandates that the DEP evaluates treatment technologies effective in eliminating PFAS from water systems.
The introduction of A2326 has the potential to provoke discussions among legislators, environmental advocates, and public health officials. While the intent of the bill is generally seen as positive, particularly with growing concerns about the health impacts of PFAS, some stakeholders may argue about the comprehensiveness and depth of the study. Critics might express concerns regarding the timeliness of the report's findings and whether action will be swift and robust enough to mitigate the risks posed by PFAS exposure. Additionally, the overall effectiveness of the proposed treatment technologies and their financial implications could be points of contention during future legislative sessions.