H.R.1938 - Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1938, the Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act, mandates the Secretary of Defense to request modifications to permits issued under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act for Department of Defense facilities. These modifications would require quarterly monitoring of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) discharges. It also calls for the implementation of best management practices or control technologies to reduce such discharges.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to reduce PFAS contamination from Department of Defense facilities by enhancing monitoring and implementing better management practices. This could lead to cleaner water resources and reduced health risks associated with PFAS exposure. The bill also allocates a portion of remediation funds for stormwater runoff testing.
Potential Benefits
- Improved water quality near Department of Defense facilities.
- Reduced exposure to harmful PFAS chemicals for communities.
- Increased transparency through regular monitoring of PFAS discharges.
- Encourages the development and implementation of better management practices for PFAS reduction.
- Dedicates funding for testing stormwater runoff, enhancing data collection.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing new monitoring and management practices.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to administrative requirements.
- The 1% funding allocation for testing might be insufficient for comprehensive monitoring.
- The bill focuses solely on Department of Defense facilities, potentially overlooking other sources of PFAS contamination.
- States or the EPA may not approve all modification requests.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's implied powers related to national defense and environmental protection. Congress has the power to regulate activities related to military facilities and to ensure the health and safety of the population. The bill also operates within the framework of existing environmental laws, such as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, which has been upheld as constitutional under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).