Contaminated Wells Relocation Act
Contaminated Wells Relocation Act
Plain Language Summary
# Contaminated Wells Relocation Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would allow NASA to pay for removing and relocating drinking water wells in Chincoteague, Virginia that are contaminated with PFAS chemicals (toxic "forever chemicals" used in firefighting foam). The wells sit on NASA's Wallops Flight Facility and have been contaminated since the 1970s when the agency used certain firefighting foams. Currently, NASA operates a water treatment system to clean the water, but this bill would fund a permanent solution by moving the wells to uncontaminated locations. **Who It Affects:** The town of Chincoteague, Virginia and its residents who rely on these drinking water wells would be the primary beneficiaries.
NASA would also be affected as it would take on the financial responsibility for the relocation project. The bill requires any agreement between NASA and Chincoteague to include specific details about where wells will be relocated and estimated costs. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been voted on by the full House. No action has been taken since its introduction.
CRS Official Summary
Contaminated Wells Relocation ActThis bill permits the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to enter into an agreement to reimburse the town of Chincoteague, Virginia for costs directly associated with the removal and relocation of drinking water wells currently situated on NASA property. (Drinking water wells located at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility near Chincoteague have tested positive for perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, resulting from the use of certain firefighting foams at the site beginning in the 1970s. NASA currently operates a water treatment system to remove PFAS from the affected water supply.) Any such agreement must include, to the extent practicable, (1) a provision for the removal and relocation of the wells remaining on NASA property, (2) a description of the location to which the wells are planned to be relocated, and (3) a current cost estimate of such relocation. Replacement wells must be established on property under the administrative control of the town of Chincoteague.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.