Department of Environmental Protection
Allocation: $5,000,000
More Information:
Status: Active
Contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has emerged as a serious issue in Maine, impacting public and private drinking water and farms. While PFAS were once common chemical ingredients used in products ranging from clothing to cookware, scientific studies have revealed that they could pose a danger to the health of people, which is why they have been phased out of use over the past several decades. However, because of frequent use since the 1950s, contaminated sites have been identified across the country, including here in Maine.
With funding from the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection will expand critical programs to determine, assess, and mitigate PFAS contamination in the state, as well as support those with contaminated lands and/or water.