Rising concerns about PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” have led to a flurry of legislative efforts in Texas. These chemicals, linked to serious health issues like cancer and infertility, have prompted lawmakers to propose several bills aimed at studying and regulating their use. However, despite bipartisan support and urgent calls for action from affected farmers, none of these bills made it to the governor’s desk this session.
Evidence of PFAS contamination is becoming more apparent across Texas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that at least 50 public water systems in the state have exceeded federal PFAS limits. In North Texas, farmers have claimed that fertilizers made from municipal waste have contaminated their land, harming their livestock and making their crops unsellable. Additionally, PFAS-laden firefighting foams are known to run off into nearby waterways, raising further alarm.
One significant bill, House Bill 1674, was introduced by Rep. Helen Kerwin from Cleburne. This bill aimed to require companies that produce biosolid-based fertilizers to test for PFAS monthly, publish the results, and properly dispose of any products that tested too high. Farmers in her district have suffered greatly, with some losing over 30% of their cattle due to PFAS contamination. Despite heartfelt testimonies from farmers at a committee hearing, the bill stalled due to opposition from chemical industry groups and wastewater utilities concerned about costs and disposal options.
Kerwin remains hopeful, stating that the awareness raised during the hearing is a step forward. She plans to reintroduce a broader version of the bill in the next session and is working with local officials to test land and water for PFAS.
Another bill, House Bill 1730, introduced by Rep. Penny Morales Shaw, sought to initiate a state study on PFAS to assess their presence and effects on human health. Although the bill gained some traction, it ultimately failed due to pushback from major industry groups who argued that a state study would duplicate federal efforts. Morales Shaw expressed optimism that, despite this setback, public pressure from constituents will eventually lead to better policies.
Additionally, Senate Bill 1898, which aimed to restrict the use of PFAS firefighting foams for training and testing, made it the furthest, passing in the Senate but ultimately running out of time for a vote in the House.
Environmental advocates are frustrated by the lack of progress, especially as Texas remains one of the few large states without a comprehensive plan to address PFAS exposure. With growing evidence linking these chemicals to health risks, many are calling for immediate action to protect public health and the environment.