Lawsuit for Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Government Remediation

The Perfluoroalkyl substance, also known as PFAS, is frequently found in various industries, manufacturing processes, and household products. Regrettably, this harmful substance is considered a carcinogen. If you or your loved ones have been exposed to PFAS due to negligent government entities and pollution, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we specialize in representing clients who are seeking legal action against government entities for PFAS exposure and its detrimental effects. Our experienced Wheeling WV criminal lawyer will be with you every step of the way throughout the legal proceedings.

The widespread use of PFAS in industrial and manufacturing sectors has resulted in its presence in public and private water supplies nationwide. This has led to the urgent need for remediation, as the process is both extensive and costly – an endeavor that should be addressed by the government.

The Use of PFAS

Companies like DuPont and 3M depend on the sales of PFAS, generating approximately $1 billion in revenue annually. PFAS is a critical component in stain repellants, as well as in the creation of industrial water. Additionally, there is a secondary market where PFAS is utilized in lubricants, paints, spray-on coatings, and polishes, contributing up to $100 million in sales each year.

PFAS is widely incorporated in the following manufacturing processes:

• Flame retardants
• Fire extinguisher foams
• Pesticides
• Inks
• Hydraulic fluids for the automotive and aerospace industries
• Copier and color printer components
• Medical devices
• Metal or chrome coatings
• Non-stick cookware
• Food packaging

Consequences on Health

The health effects of PFAS are devastating to both humans and wildlife. Given its classification as a notable carcinogen, exposure to PFAS can lead to severe health issues, such as testicle and kidney cancer. In addition to carcinoma, exposure to PFAS can result in other health problems, including but not limited to:

• High cholesterol levels
• Pre-eclampsia or toxemia, dangerous complications during pregnancy
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Infertility
• Autoimmune diseases
• Mental impairment
• Developmental disabilities
• Blood disorders
• Ulcerative colitis

How PFAS Can Enter Water Supply?

The entry of PFAS into our water supply stems primarily from its discharge into industrial waste. This waste finds its way into rivers, streams, and even seeps into the soil. During rainfall, PFAS infiltrates underground aquifers, where its non-biodegradable nature ensures its persistence in the environment indefinitely.

PFAS is commonly utilized as a fire suppressant foam, an industrial lubricant, and a hydraulic acid. Consequently, locations prone to contamination are often found near industrial areas, fire training facilities, and military bases. Notably, a former US Air Force Base in Michigan has reported water supply contamination, affecting millions of Americans. The extent of the issue is revealed in an August 2018 Environmental Research journal, estimating that six million Americans are exposed to PFAS-contaminated water.

Addressing the removal of PFAS from water supply incurs significant costs, exceeding $1 million annually, posing a substantial burden on communities. At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we take legal action against government entities, ensuring access to uncontaminated water. For assistance, connect with our esteemed Wheeling WV OVI lawyer today.