The Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act would shield water and wastewater treatment facilities from federal environmental liability claims related to releases of PFAS chemicals, which are persistent pollutants commonly known as "forever chemicals." The protection applies to public water systems, treatment plants, municipalities, and their contractors when they handle PFAS in the normal course of treating water, managing byproducts like activated carbon filters, or disposing of treated water in compliance with applicable laws. The exemption would prevent the federal government, states, or tribes from suing these water entities to recover cleanup costs or damages caused by PFAS releases. However, the liability shield does not apply if a water system acts with gross negligence or willful misconduct, preserving accountability for reckless behavior. The bill contains no specific funding or timeline provisions and would take effect upon enactment.
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