An Act studying the effect of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in commercial products

This bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to hire an external research organization to study the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, in agricultural and food products sold in the state. The selected research team must have specific expertise in analyzing environmental samples and access to advanced testing equipment to measure PFAS levels in items such as produce, dairy, meat, and farming inputs like water and fertilizer. The study's findings must be compiled into a report that is made publicly available in plain language and submitted to state legislative committees by August 31, 2024. The law takes effect within 180 days of being passed, initiating a one-year investigation into potential contamination sources in the local food supply.