Wisconsin Proclaimed First PFAS Awareness Week
The state has prioritized contamination efforts through new funding, legal settlements, and updated water standards.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Environmental
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Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed the first-ever PFAS Awareness Week to highlight ongoing efforts to mitigate harmful chemical exposure across Wisconsin. The administration continues to roll out grant programs and utilize state funds to address environmental contamination.
Why it matters
PFAS chemicals accumulate in human and wildlife bodies, leading to adverse health impacts that the state is working to curb. By securing significant funding and establishing strict water standards, Wisconsin aims to ensure safer drinking water for all residents.
Wisconsin established an enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS at 4.0 parts per trillion in March 2026, a significant decrease from the previous 70 parts per trillion threshold. The state also secured a $125 million investment for contamination cleanup.
The players
Tony Evers
Tony Evers is the Governor of Wisconsin who has prioritized clean water initiatives during his administration.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for implementing environmental policy and managing grant programs.
Tyco Fire Products LP
Tyco Fire Products LP is a chemical manufacturer that entered into a legal settlement with the State of Wisconsin regarding contamination.
The details
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is utilizing an interactive data viewer to track contamination and is preparing to launch a new grant program for sampling in private wells, schools, and childcare facilities. These efforts follow a state-level settlement with Tyco Fire Products LP and the release of $10 million specifically for the Marinette area.
Timeline
In 2019, Governor Evers declared the Year of Clean Drinking Water.
Governor Evers vetoed Senate Bill 312 in April 2024.
Wisconsin established new PFAS drinking water standards in March 2026.
The State of Wisconsin settled a lawsuit with Tyco Fire Products in June 2026.
A new DNR grant program for PFAS sampling is scheduled to launch in October 2026.
Deeper Dive
This state action follows the fiscal frameworks established by the 2023-25 Wisconsin Biennial Budget. The proclamation and subsequent funding releases represent the execution of specific budgetary provisions designed to address environmental toxicity.
The new grant programs will provide residents and facility managers with pathways to test private water sources for PFAS contamination. These initiatives are designed to improve safety for those relying on local well water or community facilities.
The takeaway
The proactive proclamation of PFAS Awareness Week underscores the states shift toward aggressive environmental oversight and remediation. Residents should stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities to ensure their local water sources remain compliant with the new safety thresholds.
What happens next
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is set to launch a new grant program for PFAS sampling in private wells, schools, and childcare facilities in October 2026.
Further reading
For more information on state environmental efforts, visit the Environmental section.
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