HR 3761119th CongressIn Committee

To direct the Secretary of Defense to designate a Coordinator for Engagement with PFAS-impacted defense communities.

Introduced: Jun 5, 2025

Environment & Climate

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

H.R. 3761 would require the Department of Defense (DoD) to designate a single official, titled the Coordinator for Engagement with Defense Communities Affected by PFAS, within one year of enactment. The Coordinator’s main duties are to improve outreach, education, and communication with current and former defense communities in the United States affected by PFAS contamination or leakage, and to serve as a dedicated liaison between DoD and local governments, advocacy organizations, and individual residents in those communities where PFAS remediation is ongoing or incomplete. PFAS refers to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a broad group of chemicals associated with contamination linked to some defense activities. The bill defines PFAS by reference to the definitions used in the NDAA for FY2021 (Public Law 116-283). In short, the bill creates a formal liaison role to strengthen DoD engagement with PFAS-impacted communities, with a focus on communication and coordination during remediation efforts.

Key Points

1Establishment and timeline: The Secretary of Defense must designate an official as the “Coordinator for Engagement with Defense Communities Affected by PFAS” within 12 months after enactment.
2Core responsibilities: The Coordinator will (a) improve outreach, education, and communication about PFAS issues in impacted defense communities, and (b) act as a dedicated liaison between DoD and local governments, advocacy groups, and residents in communities where PFAS remediation is ongoing or not yet complete.
3Scope of affected communities: Applies to current or former defense communities located in the United States that have been affected by PFAS contamination or leakage.
4Definition of PFAS: Uses the same definitions of PFAS as provided in section 333(b) of the NDAA for FY2021, ensuring consistency with other federal PFAS terminology.
5Legislative status and next steps: Introduced in the 119th Congress and referred to the Committee on Armed Services; does not specify funding or additional authorities beyond designation and duties.

Impact Areas

Primary affected group/area: Residents and local governments in PFAS-impacted defense communities (current and former) within the United States, particularly where PFAS remediation projects are ongoing or incomplete.Secondary affected group/area: Advocacy organizations, community groups, and individuals in those defense communities who engage with DoD on PFAS issues; DoD staff and local government partners who interact with the Coordinator.Additional impacts:- Potential improvement in transparency and consistency of communications regarding PFAS remediation progress and health considerations.- Clarified point of contact within DoD to streamline community engagement, potentially reducing information gaps.- The bill does not specify funding or statutory enforcement tools, so practical implementation depends on DoD resources and existing program structures; coordination with other federal/state agencies involved in PFAS cleanup may be affected.

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