Sue Fenton gives Senate Testimony on the Public Health Impacts of PFAS Exposures

Dr. Sue Fenton (CHHE Director) and Dr. Laurel Schaider (Silent Spring Institute) provided expert testimony at the request of Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) during a December 5th hearing of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Subcommittee on Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice, and Regulatory Oversight, focused on PFAS exposure and its effects on human health. Dr. Fenton highlighted her groundbreaking research on the impacts of PFAS on breastfeeding and prenatal development, emphasizing how these “forever chemicals” transfer from mothers to infants during pregnancy and nursing, leading to developmental abnormalities, immune suppression, and other long-term health issues. She called for stricter regulation of PFAS, particularly non-essential uses in consumer products, updated clinical guidelines to protect pregnant women and children, and holding polluters accountable for cleanup costs. Her testimony underscored the urgent need for action to mitigate PFAS exposure and protect public health. If you would like to listen to the full testimony please check the link to the video here.

Great job, Sue, and thank you for testifying to protect the health of us all!