Wisconsin Republicans have ignored Governor Tony Evers’ call to spend $125 million to combat PFAS chemicals, leading Evers to consider suing over the issue. The disagreement between Evers and the Legislature on how to tackle the pollution caused by these forever chemicals has led to a stalemate. Despite both parties acknowledging the importance of addressing PFAS chemicals, they have been unable to reach a consensus on the best approach.
In response to the Republicans’ inaction, Evers called a meeting of the budget committee, but no Republicans showed up. Evers criticized the GOP for their lack of action, stating that they had missed an opportunity to address the issue effectively. He hinted at the possibility of taking legal action, including potentially filing a lawsuit with the Wisconsin Supreme Court to compel the committee to release the funding.
The need for immediate action on PFAS contamination has been emphasized by the recent announcement of new limits on certain types of PFAS chemicals in drinking water by the Environmental Protection Agency. Evers highlighted the importance of providing support to communities impacted by the contamination and stressed the difficulties faced by local officials in ensuring safe drinking water for residents.
The Republican co-chairs of the budget committee, Sen. Howard Marklein and Rep. Mark Born, defended their decision not to meet, stating that Evers cannot compel the committee to take action. They accused the governor of disregarding the legislative process and the separation of powers. Republican Sen. Eric Wimberger accused Democrats of staging a publicity stunt and suggested that they should focus on overturning Evers’ veto of a bill aimed at establishing a grant program for distributing the funds.
PFAS chemicals, also known as forever chemicals, pose serious health risks and have been linked to various health problems, including low birth weight, cancer, and liver disease. Municipalities across Wisconsin, including Marinette, Madison, Wausau, and French Island, are grappling with PFAS contamination in groundwater. Evers also sought approval for crisis-response funding to support hospital services in western Wisconsin following recent closures, but the budget committee has yet to take action on this request.
