In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee, lawmakers discussed a proposed bill aimed at banning a specific consumer product containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of chemicals linked to environmental and health concerns. The bill seeks to add this product to a previous legislation that already addresses PFAS-related issues.

The discussion highlighted the simplicity of the proposed ban, as many neighboring states have already enacted similar measures. Advocates pointed out that the International Ski Federation has prohibited the use of PFAS in ski wax since 2021, and alternatives are readily available and effective. Testimonies from local skiers emphasized that national racing teams do not use PFAS-containing wax, further supporting the argument for the ban.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the alarming levels of PFAS found in various lakes across New Hampshire. Reports indicated that fish caught in these waters have PFAS concentrations exceeding the EPA's recommended limits by thousands of times. This situation has led to advisories against consuming fish from several local lakes, including Beaver Lake and Robinson Pond.

The bill's proponents argued that addressing PFAS in ski wax is crucial, as these chemicals do not just end up in landfills but directly contaminate water sources. The committee's discussions underscored the urgency of tackling PFAS pollution to protect both public health and the environment.

As the meeting progressed, the committee also opened the floor for public testimony on additional bills, indicating a continued focus on consumer safety and environmental protection in future legislative sessions. The outcome of this proposed ban could set a precedent for further regulations on harmful substances in consumer products, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental stewardship in New Hampshire.