The resolution from the New Jersey Senate calls on the federal government to provide legal remedies for victims exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and to promote research into the effects of these harmful chemicals. PFAS are synthetic compounds that persist in the environment and have been found in various consumer products, leading to widespread contamination of drinking water. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including cancer and reproductive damage, affecting millions of individuals across the United States. The resolution highlights the lack of federal legal recourse for those harmed by PFAS and supports the proposed PFAS Accountability Act of 2024, which aims to establish legal protections for victims and encourage funding for research on PFAS.
By endorsing this resolution, New Jersey seeks to unify efforts at the federal level to address the public health crisis posed by PFAS exposure. The resolution emphasizes the need for a coordinated response to the fragmented state-level actions currently in place, advocating for a comprehensive federal approach to protect affected individuals and mitigate the risks associated with these "forever chemicals." The Senate plans to transmit copies of the resolution to key congressional leaders to galvanize support for the proposed legislation and ensure that victims of PFAS exposure receive the necessary legal and research support.