Wisconsin Approves $132M in PFAS Funding

New law provides relief for communities impacted by toxic chemical contamination

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:55pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph of a glowing water droplet, revealing its intricate molecular structure against a dark background, conceptually representing the hidden dangers of PFAS contamination in drinking water.An X-ray view of a water droplet exposes the unseen threat of PFAS chemicals, highlighting the need for comprehensive action to protect public health.Madison Today

The Wisconsin state government has approved $132 million in funding to combat PFAS contamination across the state, a major victory for public health advocates after a seven-year campaign. The legislation provides $80 million for public water systems and $35 million for private well owners to address the widespread issue of PFAS chemicals in drinking water.

Why it matters

PFAS chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, and many Wisconsin communities have been forced to rely on bottled water due to contamination. This new funding represents a significant step forward in addressing the crisis and holding polluters accountable.

The details

The final bill, signed into law by Governor Tony Evers, avoids 'poison pill' provisions that would have limited the state's ability to regulate PFAS and hold polluters responsible. Conservation groups and impacted community members have been advocating for this legislation for years.

  • The bill was signed into law on April 6, 2026.
  • The advocacy campaign has been ongoing for seven years.

The players

Wisconsin Conservation Voters

A non-profit organization that advocates for environmental protection and conservation policies in Wisconsin.

Gov. Tony Evers

The current Governor of Wisconsin, who signed the PFAS funding legislation into law.

Rep. Jeffrey Mursau

A Wisconsin state representative who worked to remove polluter loopholes from the PFAS funding bill.

Peter Burress

The Government Affairs Manager for Wisconsin Conservation Voters.

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What they’re saying

“This is a monumental win for every Wisconsinite who believes that safe and affordable drinking water is a fundamental right.”

— Peter Burress, Government Affairs Manager, Wisconsin Conservation Voters

“We thank Gov. Evers, the Department of Natural Resources, and Rep. Jeffrey Mursau for their steadfast commitment to clean water and for working to remove polluter loopholes that would have weakened our public health protections.”

— Peter Burress, Government Affairs Manager, Wisconsin Conservation Voters

What’s next

The state will now work to distribute the $132 million in funding to public water systems and private well owners to address PFAS contamination. Advocates will also continue to push for stronger regulations and accountability measures to hold polluters responsible.

The takeaway

This new PFAS funding represents a major victory for public health and environmental protection in Wisconsin, demonstrating the power of grassroots advocacy to drive meaningful change. However, there is still more work to be done to fully address the PFAS crisis and ensure safe, affordable drinking water for all Wisconsinites.