Head of the DNR Requests More Funds to Combat PFAS Contamination

Saturday, May 6th, 2023 -- 8:01 AM

(By Danielle Kaeding, Wisconsin Public Radio) -The head of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said the Republican-controlled state Legislature should provide more funding than what’s proposed under Gov. Tony Evers’ budget to help communities address PFAS contamination. 

According to Danielle Kaeding with Wisconsin Public Radio, DNR Secretary-designee Adam Payne made the remarks Tuesday as part of a day-long workshop for local government leaders on PFAS.

The conservation group Wisconsin’s Green Fire hosted the event, which was broadcast on WisconsinEye. Evers has proposed more than $100 million to address PFAS largely through a grant program that would help communities investigate and respond to contamination. GOP lawmakers stripped hundreds of items from the governor’s budget this week, including several PFAS provisions.

Even so, Payne noted funding to combat the harmful forever chemicals was not among items removed. He urged attendees to contact lawmakers to ensure funding for PFAS remains in the budget.

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