Assembly Bill 131 aims to address the issue of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination through the establishment of various programs and requirements. The bill mandates the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create a municipal PFAS grant program that provides funding for testing and remediation efforts related to PFAS in municipal water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, and landfills. It also introduces an innocent landowner grant program to assist individuals or entities that have been affected by PFAS contamination, allowing for grants up to $250,000. Additionally, the bill outlines specific exemptions from the spills law for eligible grant recipients and sets limitations on DNR's ability to impede construction projects based on PFAS contamination unless certain conditions are met.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for increased PFAS testing, the establishment of a pilot project for treating PFAS-contaminated water, and the requirement for DNR to report on its expenditures and progress in implementing the bill's provisions. It also modifies existing programs, such as the Safe Drinking Water Loan Program and Clean Water Fund Program, to prioritize projects addressing PFAS contamination. The bill emphasizes collaboration between DNR and the University of Wisconsin System to enhance laboratory capabilities for PFAS testing and mandates studies to analyze various aspects of PFAS treatment and disposal. Overall, Assembly Bill 131 seeks to provide comprehensive measures to mitigate the impact of PFAS contamination on public health and the environment.