MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A state lawsuit against 18 companies regarding PFAS contamination has been moved from state court to federal court.
The state wants the companies, including Tyco/Johnson Controls, to reimburse the state for investigations and cleanup efforts.
The suit was originally filed in Dane County court, but was moved to federal court in Madison because some of the companies manufactured the chemicals for military contracts – making federal court the appropriate venue.
The defendants have not formally replied to the state’s claims. No hearing have been scheduled.
PFAS is an abbreviation for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The chemicals were developed as coatings to protect consumer goods from stains, water and corrosion. Nonstick cookware, carpets, outdoor gear and food packaging are among items that contain the chemicals. They also are an ingredient in firefighting foams.
They’re often described as “forever chemicals” because some don’t degrade naturally and are believed to be capable of lingering indefinitely in the environment. Research suggests that they may cause health problems in humans.
