The New Hampshire House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee convened on January 23, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at addressing environmental concerns related to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in consumer products. A key focus of the meeting was House Bill 167, which seeks to add specific wax products used in skiing to the list of items regulated due to their PFAS content.

During the session, a passionate advocate highlighted that alternatives to PFAS-containing waxes are readily available and widely used, particularly at the national racing level. The speaker emphasized that since 2021, PFAS has been banned in many contexts, and the proposed bill aims to prevent further contamination of water bodies, as these waxes often wash off into lakes and rivers rather than ending up in landfills.

The discussion revealed alarming statistics regarding PFAS contamination in local water bodies, with fish caught in certain lakes showing PFAS levels 4,000 to 26,000 times higher than the EPA's recommended limits. This contamination has led to advisories against consuming fish from several lakes in the region, including Beaver Lake and Robinson Pond.

The committee also heard personal testimonies about the challenges faced by consumers in finding PFAS-free products, underscoring the importance of the proposed legislation. The bill aims to create a framework for monitoring and regulating these products, ensuring that manufacturers report their contents to state authorities.

As the committee concluded its hearing on House Bill 167, the urgency of addressing PFAS contamination was clear. The proposed legislation represents a significant step toward protecting public health and the environment in New Hampshire, with advocates hopeful for swift action in the coming sessions.