South Kent News

State Representative Angela Rigas has voiced strong opposition to a new Democratic bill targeting the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in household appliances. According to Rigas, this legislation could significantly increase consumer costs by banning many appliances that rely on PFAS for their operation.

"Democrats are going to make us all live like they did on Little House on the Prairie," said Rigas, who represents Caledonia. She argues that the ban would make common household appliances unaffordable for most people, with only the wealthiest able to purchase them. While acknowledging concerns about PFAS, she criticized what she sees as poorly considered legislation that could have far-reaching negative impacts.

The bill includes an exemption process for products unable to function without PFAS. Manufacturers must submit claims to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), which has full authority over these requests. Exemptions will be granted only if no alternatives exist, even if alternative materials dramatically increase costs.

Rigas also commented on Governor Whitmer's financial situation: "It sure is convenient the governor is getting a massive payout from her book deal the summer before Democrats make appliance costs go through the roof."

House Bill 5657 proposes that most household products containing PFAS cannot be sold in Michigan starting in 2027, with further restrictions set for 2032. Republicans warn these measures may conflict with the Interstate Commerce Clause.

Michigan has been proactive in addressing PFAS issues since establishing its PFAS Action Response Team in 2017. This initiative led to significant state-level protections against PFAS use ahead of federal actions.

The proposed legislation could also impact renewable energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels, which utilize PFAS in their production processes. Rigas criticized this approach: "Radical environmentalists embedded in our Legislature are so bent on pleasing coastal elites that they’re pursuing legislation that would blow up a plan they passed less than a year ago."

HB 5657 has been sent to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation for further review.