‘Taxpayers … will largely assume the load’

Two invoices of Oklahoma aim to protect people and lands of hazardous chemicals that have been contaminating our water and soil for decades.

According Oklahoma’s voiceThese prints are directed PFASSynthetic chemicals that are not broken down into nature. The manufacturers were created for the first time 80 years ago, and despite knowing the potential risks for health in 1961, they continued to do them anyway. Scientists now link the PFA to health problems Such as cancer, liver damage and reduced fertility.

Oklahoma plans to address this through Senate Law 268 and 271. SB 268 would prevent farmers from using wastewater -based fertilizers in farmland, a common practice that propagates PFA in our food supply: more than 80 % of Oklahoma’s wastewater ends in agricultural fields. Meanwhile, SB 271 would protect the farmers who without knowing it used the contaminated fertilizer to be demanded.

The proposed laws could save and protect health. Clean drinking water helps prevent medical problems, while protecting crop lands retains food safety. However, the cleaning of the PFA costs money: the EPA has estimated Those $ 1.5 billion are needed annually only to improve water systems.

Some worry, these invoices do not address the root cause: industrial facilities that release PFA on river roads. Others point out possible gaps in the support of farmers. It is not clear if farmers will receive income replacement if their production falls or if there will be funds to monitor farms and affected families.

Water invoices It could increase as local governments pay cleaning. This would affect the lowest revenue homes through higher costs and greater exposure to contaminated water.

“The states and taxpayers did not cause pollution, but to a large extent they will assume the burden of tests and monitoring, delivering clean water to the communities, cleaning contaminated sites and covering the costs of medical care,” said Mike Altshuler of the Oklahoma’s voice.

But the action exceeds inaction. Oklahoma joins 11 other states that approved PFA restrictions in 2024, showing a growing impulse to protect the health and resources of Americans. These invoices could help create cleaner water and safer food for Oklahoma families with appropriate funds and implementation.

The effects of PFA It can be invisible now, but communities cannot afford to wait. When supporting smart regulations today, we are investing in a healthier soil, cleaner water and better health for future generations.

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