PFAS Water Contamination Lawsuits in the U.S.
Millions of Families in the U.S. May Have Had Drinking Water Contaminated with PFAS
Recent reports have shed light on a concerning issue affecting millions of families in the United States – the contamination of drinking water with PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl) substances, commonly known as "forever chemicals." These chemicals, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), have been used in various industrial processes for years, leading to widespread groundwater contamination.
Exposure to PFAS in contaminated groundwater has been linked to serious health conditions, including cancer. Individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer after being exposed to water contaminated with PFAS may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek financial compensation.
Updates on PFAS Contamination Lawsuits
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August 6, 2024: 3M faces a lawsuit filed by 88 plaintiffs alleging PFAS exposure near various military bases across the country. The complaint details the history of PFAS usage and the harmful effects on human health, leading to claims of negligence and failure to warn.
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July 28, 2024: The EPA initiates testing of private drinking water wells for PFAS contamination near U.S. Army bases, aiming to identify and address PFAS leaks from military sites.
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July 15, 2024: A new lawsuit is filed on behalf of an Ohio man seeking damages related to contaminated drinking water by fluorochemical products, resulting in testicular cancer.
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July 9, 2024: Concerns about PFAS risk extend beyond drinking water to consumer products, with a lawsuit filed against Kenvue Inc. and Johnson & Johnson alleging PFAS in Band-Aid products without consumer disclosure.
- July 1, 2024: A new water contamination lawsuit alleges that 3M, Toray, and Daikin knowingly contaminated the environment with PFAS in Decatur, Alabama, leading to a resident’s prostate cancer diagnosis.
PFAS Settlements and Regulations
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April 24, 2024: Ornua Foods North America Inc. faces a lawsuit over Kerrygold Butter products due to alleged PFAS misrepresentations in packaging safety, upheld by a New York federal court judge.
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April 19, 2024: The EPA finalizes a rule classifying PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, aiming to facilitate cleanup of contaminated sites.
- April 15, 2024: Tyco Fire joins other companies in settling PFAS lawsuits, agreeing to a $750 million settlement to fund remediation efforts for public water systems affected by PFAS contamination.
Conclusion
The widespread contamination of drinking water with PFAS substances poses a significant health risk to millions of individuals across the United States. As lawsuits and settlements continue to address the impact of PFAS exposure, affected individuals are encouraged to seek legal representation to pursue compensation for their injuries. If you believe you have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water and have suffered health consequences, it is essential to consult with a PFAS lawyer to explore your legal options.