At a House Committee hearing this week, one exploring those condemned “forever” chemicals, Oklahoma congresswoman Stephanie Bice cautioned that it might not be wise to throw out the baby with the bathwater.
In her remarks before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Joint Subcommittee on Environment and Subcommittee on Research & Technology, Rep. Bice discussed the need to remove harmful Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) from the environment while finding safe and effective ways to use critical chemicals.
Bice is the Ranking Member of the Environment Subcommittee, and said, “As we look to the future, it’s important we remember not to villainize this entire category of chemicals.”
She said the hazard and risk profiles of the various PFAS are immensely different and a broad, categorical ban of them would be detrimental to the nation’s manufacturing sector and put lives at risk by reducing safety.
“Using certain PFAS in a controlled, responsible manner is safe and effective. Understanding the distinct properties of each of these chemicals will allow us to continue the important uses and benefits of PFAS technologies. At the end of the day, removing harmful PFAS from production and cleaning up legacy contaminations to protect human health is a bipartisan issue.”
Bice explained in her remarks that PFAS is a common denominator that makes it possible to produce the cellphones, tablets and computers used every day.
“In today’s political environment, everything tends to be polarized, but when it comes to the common good of protecting human health, not every previous action has to be repealed and replaced. We can and should build off productive work, no matter the political party,” said the Republican Representative from Edmond.