,On 19 March 2026, U.S. (Washington) Senate (Congressional Record) published the text of S. 4153, “Forever Chemical Regulation and Accountability Act of 2026,” which was introduced. The bill proposes comprehensive federal action to phase out nonessential uses of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), prohibit environmental releases, and establish regulatory and enforcement mechanisms to protect public health and the environment. The legislation would require a 10-year phase-out program for nonessential PFAS uses and mandate agreements with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to identify essential versus nonessential applications. It also directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop policies for PFAS management, enforce inspections and compliance, and support citizen suits and judicial review. The bill includes provisions for establishing Centers of Excellence to advance PFAS detection and remediation science, strengthen reporting and monitoring requirements, and address legal accountability, including in bankruptcy contexts. The Act defines key terms such as “essential use,” “manufacturer,” and “safer alternative,” and outlines detailed reporting obligations for manufacturers and users of PFAS, including data on production, environmental releases, health effects, and exposure. It authorizes enforcement actions, civil and criminal penalties for violations, and ensures public access to information submitted under the Act. Additionally, the bill preserves state authority to impose more stringent requirements In summary, S. 4153 aims to significantly tighten PFAS regulation in the United States through phased elimination of nonessential uses, enhanced scientific review and innovation support, robust enforcement, and expanded transparency and accountability.
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