The bill H.286, introduced by Representatives Masland and Mrowicki, aims to enhance drinking water standards in Vermont by addressing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). It mandates the Secretary of Natural Resources to amend the Department of Environmental Conservation's Water Supply Rule to establish a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of zero parts per trillion for specific PFAS compounds, including perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid. Additionally, the bill proposes an MCL of no more than 20 parts per trillion for any other testable PFAS not specifically listed.

The bill includes new legal definitions for PFAS and sets a deadline for the Secretary of Natural Resources to file a final proposed rule by July 1, 2026. Furthermore, it stipulates that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025. These measures are intended to protect public health by ensuring that drinking water is free from harmful levels of PFAS contaminants.