EQC Speaker Series: PFAS in Minnesota

This was a public speaker series hosted by the City of Shoreview, Minnesota, on April 2, 2026, focusing on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as forever chemicals. The presentation, given by Fox Char, the PFAS coordinator at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), covered the nature of PFAS contamination in Minnesota, health risks, environmental impacts, and the state's regulatory and remediation efforts. Key procurement-related topics included the state's legislative appropriations supporting PFAS monitoring, cleanup, and prevention programs, as well as funding mechanisms such as the drinking water revolving fund and grants for water treatment infrastructure design and planning. The discussion also highlighted the 2023 Amara's law prohibiting intentionally added PFAS in consumer products, with enforcement and reporting requirements affecting manufacturers and vendors. Additionally, the MPCA's PFAS monitoring plan and remediation guidance were noted as part of ongoing state efforts to manage contamination, with some funding sourced from settlements with responsible parties like 3M. While no specific contract awards or vendor selections were detailed, the meeting emphasized policy and funding frameworks that influence future procurement and environmental remediation activities related to PFAS in Minnesota.