States Take Legal Action Against Companies Over Toxic 'Forever Chemicals'

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), Maryland's largest water utility, has filed a lawsuit against several companies, including 3M and DuPont, alleging that they knowingly polluted the water supply with "forever chemicals" known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are found in fire-suppression foams used to fight fires and have been linked to infertility, thyroid problems, and cancer. WSSC is seeking to hold the companies financially responsible for upgrading their facilities to remove these toxic substances and to prevent passing the costs onto customers. This lawsuit follows similar actions taken by Maryland and the District of Columbia against the same companies.