Latest Legal Developments | PFAS Lawsuit (2025)

The 7th Circuit has ruled that an Illinois PFAS lawsuit against 3M will stay in state court. The court found that the federal officer removal statute doesn't apply since Illinois is not seeking damages for contamination linked to the military's use of AFFF at the Rock Island Arsenal. Instead, the state focuses solely on PFAS discharges from 3M’s Cordova facility. Despite 3M's arguments for federal jurisdiction as a contractor, the court upheld the decision to remand the case, noting Illinois specifically excluded AFFF-related claims.

A U.S. Geological Survey study estimates that up to 20% of Americans—about 95 million people—may rely on drinking water with detectable PFAS levels. This first nationwide assessment of PFAS in untreated groundwater, published in Science, reveals contamination risks, particularly in deeper aquifers. Public systems in states like Florida and California, and private wells in areas such as Michigan and New York, are notably affected. Despite recent EPA limits of 4 parts per trillion, the findings emphasize the need for targeted testing, especially for private wells. The study analyzed over 1,200 samples, linking contamination to urbanization and well depth.

A New York firefighter has filed a lawsuit against multiple chemical companies, including 3M, DuPont, and Chemours, claiming that prolonged exposure to firefighting foam (AFFF) contaminated with PFAS chemicals led to his diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. The lawsuit argues that the plaintiff developed this severe inflammatory bowel condition from drinking water affected by chemicals like PFOA and PFOS, used in nearby firefighting products.

The plaintiff seeks both compensatory and punitive damages, citing persistent pain, fatigue, and digestive issues due to the exposure. Ulcerative colitis, though less frequently discussed than cancer in contamination cases, is linked to high PFAS levels, which research shows can induce immune and digestive inflammation.

The Department of Defense has ramped up its efforts to address PFAS contamination on military installations, aligning with new EPA standards that limit PFAS in drinking water to 4 parts per trillion. Investigations are active at 350 sites, with plans to assess 150 more in the next two years. This initiative marks a push to speed up cleanup and enhance transparency following criticism of the DoD's slow response. The updated strategy aims to exceed federal guidelines, focusing on reducing risks to military families and nearby communities.

Attorneys for Elkton, Maryland residents have notified W.L. Gore & Associates of their intent to sue, alleging groundwater contamination from PFAS. The claims focus on Gore’s facility in Newark, Delaware, near Elkton, accusing the company of illegal PFAS disposal. The residents' lawyers argue that Gore’s actions violate federal environmental laws.

A Texas resident has filed a lawsuit in South Carolina's federal court, claiming that exposure to AFFF containing PFOA and PFOS led to his thyroid disease. The plaintiff alleges that contaminated drinking water in his area caused him to ingest these toxic chemicals unknowingly, resulting in severe health issues and emotional distress. The suit targets companies like 3M, Dupont, and Chemours for producing AFFF products despite knowing the risks, without proper warnings. The case requests compensatory and punitive damages and seeks to transfer the trial to Texas, where the exposure occurred.

A Texas man has filed a new lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, alleging that exposure to AFFF containing toxic chemicals like PFOA and PFOS caused him to develop thyroid disease. The plaintiff, a Texas resident named in the lawsuit, claims that the exposure occurred through contaminated drinking water in his area. The lawsuit states that the plaintiff unknowingly ingested the chemicals over a prolonged period, leading to severe personal injuries, pain, and emotional distress.

The plaintiff alleges that the companies involved, including 3M Company, Dupont de Nemours, Chemours, and others, manufactured and distributed AFFF and related products containing these hazardous chemicals. The lawsuit claims that the defendants were aware of the health risks posed by PFOA and PFOS but failed to provide adequate warnings or take measures to protect consumers. The case seeks compensatory and punitive damages for the plaintiff’s injuries and calls for a trial to be transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, where the plaintiff resides and was exposed to the chemicals.

A recent study indicates that PFAS contamination in Airway Heights, Washington, likely stems from both historical firefighting foam use at Fairchild Air Force Base and a nearby landfill. The investigation, launched after high PFAS levels were detected in 2017, analyzed potential contributors such as wildfires, crash sites, and pesticide use. Using interviews, document reviews, and scientific analysis, researchers concluded that the contamination likely originates from several sources, similar to the situation at Camp Lejeune, involving both base operations and local waste management.

An Illinois case on PFAS contamination in the Mississippi River has been returned to state court after 3M couldn't establish federal jurisdiction. The Seventh Circuit Court ruled that 3M lacked a valid federal defense against accusations of violating state laws by polluting the river. 3M's attempt to invoke the government contractor defense was dismissed, as the court confirmed Illinois is solely pursuing claims related to pollution from 3M’s Cordova facility, not other potential sources.

3M has transferred a lawsuit involving 88 plaintiffs to federal court. The plaintiffs claim PFAS exposure near multiple military bases, seeking damages for personal injuries, property damage, and environmental harm. The suit highlights the persistence and toxicity of PFAS chemicals like PFOS and PFOA. It accuses the defendants of ignoring known health and environmental risks while continuing to produce and sell these substances without adequate warnings. Claims include negligence and failure to warn, linking PFAS exposure to the plaintiffs' health issues.

The EPA has launched a pilot program to test private drinking water wells for PFAS contamination near several U.S. Army bases, targeting potential leaks from military sites. The selected bases include Fort Liberty (NC), Fort Hunter Liggett and Parks Reserve (CA), Fort Stewart (GA), Fort Novosel (AL), Blue Grass Army Depot (KY), Fort Campbell (KY), Fort Sill (OK), and McAlester Army Ammunition Plant (OK). This program, which could expand nationwide, aligns with the EPA’s recently established strict PFAS drinking water standards, including a zero parts per trillion goal for PFOA and PFOS, underscoring the agency's stance that there is no safe level for these chemicals.

Ohio man sues over testicular cancer allegedly caused by PFAS-contaminated drinking water. Plaintiff claims companies knew of risks but continued selling products. Lawsuit seeks damages for medical expenses and other losses.

Consumers accuse Kenvue and Johnson & Johnson of hiding PFAS in Band-Aids. Lawsuit alleges deceptive marketing, claiming products contain hazardous chemicals. Plaintiffs seek damages for misleading consumers about health risks. Case filed in federal court, seeking class action status.

A resident of North Alabama has sued 3M, Toray, and Daikin for allegedly contaminating drinking water with PFAS chemicals. The plaintiff claims exposure caused prostate cancer. The lawsuit alleges the companies knew of the risks since the 1970s but continued to pollute. Case initially filed in state court, now in federal court.

Connecticut firefighters are suing chemical companies, including 3M and DuPont, claiming exposure to PFAS through firefighting gear. They allege the companies knew the risks but concealed them, leading to potential health issues. The lawsuit seeks damages and a medical monitoring program for firefighters.

Two major water utility associations are suing the EPA over new, stricter PFAS regulations. They claim the limits are too costly and not based on solid science. Critics argue this is an attempt to delay crucial protections against harmful chemicals in drinking water.

A former 3M chemist's research from the 1990s shows the company was aware of PFAS in human blood years before publicly acknowledging it. Despite internal studies indicating serious health risks, 3M suppressed this information. The company is now facing increased scrutiny and potential legal challenges due to this new revelation.

A North Alabama resident has filed a lawsuit against chemical manufacturers 3M, Daikin, and Toray, claiming they polluted the Tennessee River with PFAS. The plaintiff alleges health problems, including hypothyroidism, due to drinking contaminated water. The lawsuit seeks damages and accuses the companies of negligence, reckless behavior, and fraud.

Chemical company BASF has agreed to pay $316.5 million to settle a lawsuit brought by public water systems over PFAS contamination. The funds will be used to clean up contaminated water sources and compensate affected communities.

Kerrygold butter is being sued over claims of PFAS contamination. The lawsuit alleges the product falsely advertised as "pure" contains harmful chemicals from its packaging. Despite recent setbacks in similar cases, a judge has allowed this case to proceed. The plaintiff seeks damages and a ban on the alleged misleading claims.

The EPA has officially labeled PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances.

Companies releasing significant amounts of these chemicals must now report incidents. This new rule increases potential liability for businesses and military sites, opening the door for costly cleanups and legal battles.

A lawsuit against 3M over PFAS landfill contamination will stay in Vermont state court. The judge ruled that the company waited too long to move the case to federal court. Vermont is suing several companies over widespread PFAS pollution, including from consumer and industrial products.

Vancouver and Concord are buying PFAS-free protective equipment for firefighters. This decision is due to concerns about cancer risks linked to PFAS. Both cities aim to equip all firefighters with new gear soon. This is a positive step to protect firefighter health.

Two consumers have sued a cookware company, claiming its products contain harmful PFAS chemicals despite being advertised as healthy and eco-friendly. The lawsuit alleges the company misled customers and seeks damages and a ban on PFAS use.

A Pennsylvania resident is suing chemical manufacturers, including 3M, claiming their products polluted the state’s water supply. The plaintiff developed kidney cancer after drinking contaminated water and seeks damages for medical costs, pain, and emotional distress. They allege ongoing health risks from chemical exposure.

Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) successfully dismissed a proposed class action lawsuit alleging false advertising of waterproof clothing as eco-friendly despite containing PFAS. A federal judge in Washington state ruled that the plaintiff, Jacob Krakauer, lacked standing because he did not test his purchased jacket or similar models for PFAS.

Krakauer's claims were based on REI's omission of PFAS in labeling and reliance on environmental certifications. However, his case was weakened by the lack of specific testing and the fact that REI disclosed using short-chain PFAS when no alternatives exist. The court found Krakauer’s allegations too vague and his expectations unreasonable. He has three weeks to amend his complaint.

A new PFAS lawsuit was filed in the AFFF MDL last week by a resident of Guin, Marion County, Alabama, representing his late spouse's estate. The spouse, who was born in 1972 and lived in Guin, passed away in 2022 at age 50 from breast cancer, allegedly caused by PFAS exposure from 3M products.

The lawsuit accuses 3M of discharging PFAS-contaminated wastewater into Purgatory Creek, polluting local water sources. Additionally, 3M is alleged to have disposed of PFAS-laden solid waste at a nearby landfill, leading to chemical runoff into the Guin Water Works and Sewer Board (GWWSB) system and local watersheds. The decedent, a consumer of GWWSB’s water, was exposed to PFAS through drinking and household use, resulting in her illness and subsequent death.

The EPA has urged the Navy to speed up the Red Hill PFAS Remedial Investigation (RI) in Hawaii and conduct bi-monthly sampling of facility wells. The letter also recommends evaluating data trends, sampling storage tanks for PFAS, and addressing comments on groundwater sampling programs.

Six out of 21 monitoring wells around Red Hill exceeded EPA PFAS standards last year, prompting further investigation by the EPA and Hawaii health department. While the groundwater tested is not used for drinking, it is part of the aquifer system serving both the Navy and civilian utilities.

Public concern intensified after a November 2022 spill of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at Red Hill. Ongoing tests show PFAS presence at the spill site and high concentrations of PFOS in soil and groundwater, indicating historical contamination and highlighting the need for further investigation.

Coty Inc. successfully defended a consumer protection lawsuit in New York, which claimed overpayment for two mascaras due to alleged PFAS presence. Judge Analisa Torres ruled that consumers lacked sufficient evidence, including testing details and PFAS levels.

The lawsuit was based on a 2021 Notre Dame study finding PFAS in some waterproof mascaras. The court had earlier dismissed the suit for not proving consumer reliance on Coty's statements. While denying a dismissal without prejudice, Torres allowed consumers to amend their complaint with new facts.

This case highlights ongoing debates about the focus of PFAS litigation, balancing consumer claims with direct injury cases.

Three Connecticut residents have filed a proposed class action against Kimberly-Clark Corp., alleging that the company contaminated private wells near its New Milford plant with PFAS. The lawsuit claims emissions from the plant’s smokestacks spread PFAS into the air, poisoning nearby drinking water wells.

The New Milford facility, operating since the 1950s, uses PFAS in its manufacturing process. The suit highlights potential health issues and property devaluation. It proposes two classes: property owners affected by the contamination and those who ingested the contaminants.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a ban on PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," in grease-resistant food packaging like take-out containers. This decision eliminates a major exposure route for these harmful substances.

The U.S. government filed three motions in the District of South Carolina, seeking to dismiss claims that the military is responsible for PFAS-related environmental damage in New Mexico. The state of New Mexico and four dairy farms allege the damage stems from activities at Cannon Air Force Base.

The government argues for dismissal due to lack of subject-matter jurisdiction under CERCLA, which limits court involvement in ongoing cleanup efforts. They also contend that the use of firefighting foam was part of the Air Force’s military mission and falls under the FTCA’s Discretionary Function Exception, providing immunity for policy-based decisions. If the court sides with the government, lawyers may shift focus to suing PFAS manufacturers.

A Bethalto resident filed a PFAS lawsuit in Madison County Circuit Court, Illinois, alleging his testicular cancer was caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, including PFAS and TCE. Defendants include Shell USA, Phillips 66, Aton, Safety Kleen Systems, and 3M.

The complaint details the plaintiff’s long-term exposure to contaminated drinking water in Wood River, Madison County. The lawsuit charges the defendants with negligence and strict liability for design defects and failure to warn about PFAS dangers. It claims the defendants knew or should have known the risks but failed to protect public health. The plaintiff seeks over $50,000 in compensatory damages and other relief as deemed appropriate by the court.

In 2024, policymakers in 36 states will review over 450 bills addressing toxic chemicals, with a strong focus on PFAS, according to Safer States. The initiatives aim for a record year in PFAS bans and include measures for monitoring, testing, and labeling restrictions in products like firefighting equipment.

Supported by diverse groups including firefighters, farmers, and families, the movement seeks to reduce risks from petrochemicals. Additionally, 25 states will consider laws to curb plastic pollution, and 15 states will examine regulations on harmful chemicals in cosmetics and microplastics in drinking water, reflecting a broader push for safer consumer products.

Seneca County filed a federal lawsuit against a former Army depot in New York, alleging contamination of the county’s drinking water with PFAS from firefighting foam. Tests on September 10, 2019, showed PFAS levels far above state limits, with PFOA at 1,360 ppt, PFHxS at 2,790 ppt, and PFHxA at 1,090 ppt.

The lawsuit claims the Seneca Army Depot used and released large amounts of firefighting foam containing PFAS until about 2009, despite knowing its toxicity. The suit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, seeks costs for investigating the contamination and funding for a water treatment system to remove PFAS.

Carneys Point Township in New Jersey wants to delay a $393 million settlement between the state and Solvay Specialty Polymers USA LLC over chemical contamination. The township claims the state and its legal team rushed the settlement, ignoring legal protocols. They have filed motions to intervene, aiming to stay the approval until two other lawsuits are resolved.

The township argues the settlement deviates from requiring Solvay to create a $315 million cash trust for remediation. Instead, the state accepted $214 million in non-cash guarantees and $101 million in cash escrow. Additionally, they criticize the state's retainer agreement with external counsel, alleging it violates legal fee limits.

A North Carolina court has ruled that subsidiaries and spinoffs from E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Co. may be held accountable for alleged PFAS contamination. The ruling stems from a 2020 lawsuit accusing these entities of polluting the state's air, land, and water through activities at the Fayetteville Works chemical plant.

The lawsuit targets all three DuPont companies, including E.I. du Pont and The Chemours Co., for their role in the dissemination of PFAS chemicals.

The EPA has proposed two major rules to improve hazardous waste management, specifically targeting PFAS chemicals. These initiatives would enable the EPA and state and local governments to require investigations and remediation for PFAS contamination.

A key proposal is to classify nine specific PFAS chemicals as hazardous constituents under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), strengthening the regulatory framework for PFAS waste management. These rules, open for public comment, are part of the EPA’s broader strategy to regulate PFAS through various legal avenues, including the Toxic Substances Control Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The Village of Johnson City has sued the United States Air Force (USAF), alleging PFAS contamination from USAF Plant 59. The Village claims six decades of activities at the plant have contaminated surface soils, sediments, stormwater runoff, and groundwater, threatening their drinking water.

The lawsuit accuses the USAF of creating a public nuisance by failing to prevent PFAS contamination and of trespass for allowing PFAS to migrate onto Village property. Johnson City seeks monetary damages, reimbursement for mitigation costs, and the installation of a PFAS removal system. The case highlights the significant health risks of PFAS contamination at military bases.

The 3rd Circuit deliberated on whether the EPA’s health advisory for two PFAS, known as “GenX chemicals” (hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid and its ammonium salt), constitutes a legal requirement. The Chemours Company is challenging the 2022 advisory, which suggests health risks, such as liver abnormalities, from concentrations above ten parts per trillion in drinking water.

The key issue is whether these advisories are regulatory and enforceable. The EPA argued they are informational and non-enforceable under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Chemours contended that the advisories have immediate practical implications, citing a Utah waste permit where compliance with the advisory is enforceable.

This case is significant and a ruling is expected sooner than usual for the 3rd Circuit.

U.S. District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín of the Northern District of California has dismissed two class action lawsuits claiming certain tampon brands contain harmful "forever chemicals." The judge ruled in favor of Edgewell Personal Care, stating the cases regarding O.B. Organic and Playtex Gentle Glide lacked substantial evidence.

Judge Martínez-Olguín found the plaintiffs' PFAS testing claims insufficiently detailed and lacking specific results. References to patent applications and product labels were deemed speculative, failing to plausibly link PFAS presence to the tampons.

A proposed class action lawsuit has been filed against Health-Ade LLC, claiming that the company misled consumers by marketing its kombucha drinks as health products while containing unsafe PFAS levels. The complaint, filed in New York federal court, cites independent lab tests that detected PFAS chemicals in Health-Ade’s Ginger Pineapple Belly Reset and four other products.

The plaintiff alleges that Health-Ade’s branding as a “healthy,” “natural,” and “organic” option misled consumers, who wouldn’t expect a health-focused product to contain toxic PFAS, which are linked to health risks like cancer and liver damage, per CDC findings. She claims she wouldn’t have bought the product had she known about the PFAS content and its risks.

In the Southern District of Illinois, a plaintiff is suing Tyco Fire Products LP, Chemguard, Inc., and others, alleging their PFAS-containing products caused his testicular cancer. He claims exposure to high PFAS levels through drinking water in Wood River, Madison County, Illinois.

The lawsuit focuses on PFAS in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used by defendants, including Tyco, which was produced according to military specifications. Tyco has moved the case to federal court, citing the “government contractor” defense, which argues they followed military requirements and should not be liable. The plaintiff's attorney challenges the validity of this defense, often deemed misapplied.

Maine requires companies using PFAS to notify the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) by March 1 as part of a 2021 law that will ban most products with intentionally added PFAS by 2030, unless deemed essential by the DEP. This law, influenced by similar European regulations, makes Maine the first U.S. state to restrict PFAS to essential uses only.

The DEP plans to release a preliminary list of essential uses by May, followed by a formal rulemaking process. Businesses such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Campbell Soup, and Yamaha have requested deadline extensions, citing delays in understanding compliance requirements. The law specifically targets harmful PFAS compounds like PFOA, linked to cancer, PFHxA, which impacts liver health, and PTFE (Teflon), known for environmental persistence and health risks.

DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva have proposed a $1.185 billion settlement to address PFAS contamination nationwide, with only seven out of 14,000 affected water utilities raising objections, including those in Broward County, FL, and Tacoma, WA. Judge Gergel’s approval is anticipated, but the settlement would cover less than 10% of plaintiffs. Other plaintiffs, especially from bellwether cases, continue to pursue claims for health and environmental damages. Attorneys from 28 states propose a coordinated approach to address broader public health and environmental impacts, potentially benefiting all affected parties.

Chemours Co. is requesting a judicial review of a recent EPA regulation restricting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) across multiple industries. The rule, introduced in October, targets HFCs in refrigeration, air conditioning, foam production, and aerosols. HFCs have a significantly higher environmental impact than carbon dioxide. The regulation includes procedures for petitioning to limit HFC use, sets compliance deadlines, and bans the production of certain high-global-warming-potential equipment.

The Chemours Company has agreed with the EPA to conduct environmental sampling for PFAS around its Washington Works facility in Washington, WV. Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Chemours will analyze soil, water, sediment, groundwater, and waste. This effort aims to assess PFAS contamination levels. Based on the findings, the EPA will ensure Chemours takes necessary actions to protect nearby communities from these persistent chemicals.