Scott Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit

In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standards for PFAS chemicals.

This regulation sets strict limits on six specific PFAS compounds, marking a significant shift in environmental protection standards.

The new EPA regulations establish the following Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs):

• PFOA: 4 parts per trillion (PPT)
• PFOS: 4 PPT
• PFNA: 10 PPT
• PFHxS: 10 PPT
• HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals): 10 PPT
• PFBS: Regulated through a Hazard Index approach

These stringent standards reflect growing scientific evidence about the serious health risks posed by even minimal PFAS exposure. The EPA’s regulation requires public water systems to monitor for these chemicals and take action when levels exceed these limits.

Health Effects of PFAS Exposure: Symptoms & Conditions

Scientific research has linked PFAS exposure to numerous serious health conditions.

According to the latest studies and CDC/ATSDR documentation, individuals exposed to PFAS may experience or develop:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Decreased immune response
• Thyroid hormone disruption
• Pregnancy-induced hypertension
• Reproductive issues
• Developmental effects in infants
• Additional severe health conditions

The severity of health effects often correlates with both the level and duration of exposure.

These health risks are particularly concerning for communities around Scott AFB, where PFAS levels significantly exceed EPA standards.

Potential Defendants in PFAS Lawsuits

Military bases like Scott AFB used AFFF containing PFAS chemicals from these manufacturers for decades in firefighting operations and training exercises, leading to widespread contamination of soil and groundwater. Legal issues surrounding water contamination near Cannon Air Force Base have also emerged, particularly focusing on a lawsuit that claims the military contaminated local dairy farms with harmful forever chemicals.

Several major manufacturers and chemical companies face legal action for their role in PFAS contamination.

Primary PFAS Manufacturers include, but are not limited to:

• 3M Company
• DuPont (and its spinoff, Chemours)
• Tyco Fire Products
• Chemguard
• Kidde-Fenwal
• National Foam
• Buckeye Fire Equipment

These companies manufactured PFAS chemicals despite allegedly knowing about their potential health risks.

The lawsuits argue that these manufacturers continued producing and selling PFAS-containing products without adequate warnings about their dangers or proper guidance for safe disposal.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Defense (DoD) have conducted extensive investigations into PFAS contamination at Scott Air Force Base.

These investigations reveal concerning levels of PFAS chemicals in both on-base and off-base water sources, prompting expanded testing requirements and remediation efforts. Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), historically used by military installations for firefighting during training exercises and emergency responses, has significantly contributed to groundwater contamination and environmental concerns.

According to official reports, the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) has identified multiple areas of concern where firefighting activities may have contributed to PFAS contamination.

The DoD announced in 2024 that it would stop buying firefighting foams containing PFAS chemicals and halt their use altogether by the end of the year, marking a significant shift in military policy.

Timeline of PFAS Investigation at Scott AFB

The investigation into PFAS contamination at Scott AFB spans several decades, beginning with the use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in firefighting operations.

The Air Force has documented extensive use of these chemicals in training exercises, emergency responses, and fire suppression systems throughout the base.

Recent years have seen increased scrutiny and more comprehensive testing efforts as understanding of PFAS risks has grown.

Key events in the investigation of PFAS contamination at Scott AFB include:

• 1970s-2020s: Use of AFFF containing PFAS in firefighting operations and training exercises
• 2015: Initial PFAS testing conducted by Air Force Civil Engineer Center
• 2020:Illinois EPA recommends expanded testing of water supplies
• 2024: Implementation of new EPA drinking water standards affecting base operations
• 2024: DoD announces complete phase-out of PFAS-containing firefighting foam

Expert Testimonies and Scientific Evidence

Environmental scientists and health experts have provided extensive documentation of PFAS contamination at Scott AFB through comprehensive studies and analysis, highlighting the serious health consequences associated with PFAS exposure.

Their findings demonstrate not only the presence of these chemicals but also their movement through groundwater systems and potential impact on surrounding communities.

Multiple independent laboratories have confirmed these results, providing crucial evidence for ongoing investigations.

Scientific studies and expert findings indicate:

• Groundwater sampling results: PFAS levels thousands of times higher than EPA safety standards
• Contamination spread: Documented movement beyond base boundaries through groundwater
• Environmental persistence: Studies confirm long-term presence of PFAS in local ecosystems
• Health impact correlation: Medical experts link local health issues to PFAS exposure
• Independent verification: Laboratory testing confirms multiple PFAS compounds present

The Air Force continues to work with federal and state agencies to assess and address PFAS contamination, though cleanup efforts face significant challenges due to the chemicals’ persistence in the environment.

Individuals who were exposed to PFAS-contaminated water at Scott Air Force Base may be eligible to file a claim for compensation.

The qualification process requires documenting both exposure to contaminated water and diagnosis of qualifying health conditions.

Legal experts emphasize that successful claims typically require establishing a clear connection between time spent at Scott AFB and subsequent health issues.

The statute of limitations varies by state, so timely action is important for preserving legal rights.

To determine eligibility, attorneys will review your connection to Scott AFB and medical history to evaluate the strength of your potential claim.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Exposed to PFAS

The first step for anyone potentially exposed to PFAS at Scott AFB is to document their exposure history and seek appropriate medical evaluation.

Early detection and documentation of health issues can be crucial for both medical care and legal claims.

Important actions for those exposed to PFAS include:

• Medical screening: Schedule comprehensive health evaluations
• Water testing: Request testing of current water sources if you live near the base
• Exposure documentation: Record dates and duration of time spent at Scott AFB
• Symptom tracking: Keep detailed records of any health changes or concerns
• Healthcare provider communication: Inform your doctors about potential PFAS exposure

Taking these steps promptly can significantly strengthen your claim and ensure you receive appropriate medical care.

Many PFAS-related health conditions develop gradually, making early documentation and ongoing monitoring essential for establishing the connection between exposure and health impacts.

Collecting Medical Records for a PFAS Claim

Proper documentation is essential for building a strong PFAS lawsuit case.

Medical records can serve as evidence linking exposure to health conditions and documenting the progression of related medical issues.

The documentation process should be thorough and ongoing.

Required documentation typically includes:

• Service records: Proof of military service or employment at Scott AFB
• Residency verification: Evidence of living on or near the base
• Medical diagnoses: Records of qualifying health conditions
• Treatment history: Documentation of ongoing medical care
• Expert opinions: Statements from healthcare providers about PFAS-related conditions

Working with experienced attorneys can help ensure all necessary documentation is properly collected and organized.

Legal teams often have established relationships with medical experts who understand PFAS exposure and can help strengthen the connection between contamination and health issues in your claim.

Recent scientific studies have revealed significant health and environmental concerns about PFAS contamination at military installations like Scott Air Force Base.

Research conducted by environmental agencies and independent laboratories continues to provide new insights into the extent and impact of these forever chemicals.

Multiple studies have documented the persistence of PFAS in both soil and groundwater systems around the base.

The scientific community continues to investigate the long-term effects of PFAS exposure, with new findings regularly emerging about these chemicals’ behavior in the environment.

Environmental Impact of PFAS Contamination at Scott AFB

Environmental scientists have conducted extensive studies to assess the full scope of PFAS contamination in the Scott AFB region.

Their research has revealed complex patterns of chemical migration through soil and groundwater systems, with implications for both the base and surrounding communities.

Key environmental findings include:

• Soil contamination: High concentrations in former firefighting training areas
• Groundwater movement: PFAS migration through underground water systems
• Surface water impact: Contamination of local streams and water bodies
• Ecological effects: Impact on local wildlife and plant ecosystems
• Persistence rates: Long-term chemical stability in the environment

Recent environmental assessments have shown that PFAS chemicals continue to persist in the ecosystem, creating ongoing challenges for remediation efforts.

Ongoing Monitoring and Testing of PFAS Levels

Regular testing and monitoring programs have been established to track PFAS levels at and around Scott AFB.

These programs use advanced analytical methods to measure contamination levels and assess the effectiveness of remediation efforts.

Current monitoring activities include:

• Quarterly water testing: Regular sampling of groundwater wells
• Soil sampling: Ongoing assessment of contaminated areas
• Migration tracking: Monitoring of PFAS movement patterns
• Treatment evaluation: Testing effectiveness of remediation methods
• Public water monitoring: Regular testing of municipal water supplies

The results of these ongoing monitoring efforts help guide cleanup strategies and inform public health decisions.

Scientists continue to refine their testing methods and expand monitoring locations to ensure comprehensive coverage of affected areas.

Our PFAS Contamination attorney at TruLaw is dedicated to supporting clients through the process of filing a PFAS Contamination lawsuit.

With extensive experience in chemical exposure cases, Jessica Paluch-Hoerman and our partner law firms work with litigation leaders to prove how toxic PFAS chemicals in water supplies caused you harm.

TruLaw focuses on securing compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, lost income, and ongoing health monitoring resulting from your PFAS exposure.

We understand the health and environmental impacts of PFAS exposure on your life and provide the personalized guidance you need when seeking justice.

Meet the Lead PFAS Contamination Attorney at TruLaw

Meet our lead PFAS Contamination attorney:

• Jessica Paluch-Hoerman: As founder and managing attorney of TruLaw, Jessica brings her experience in product liability and personal injury litigation to her client-centered approach by prioritizing open communication and personalized attention with her clients. Through TruLaw and partner law firms, Jessica has helped collect over $3 billion dollars on behalf of injured individuals across all 50 states through verdicts and negotiated settlements.

How much does hiring a PFAS Contamination lawyer from TruLaw cost?

At TruLaw, we believe financial concerns should never stand in the way of justice.

That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis—with this approach, you only pay legal fees after you’ve been awarded compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one experienced health complications from exposure to PFAS-contaminated water that include forms of cancer, immune disorders, liver damage, or thyroid disease, you may be eligible to seek compensation.

Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and determine whether you qualify to join others in filing a PFAS Contamination Lawsuit today.

PFAS water contamination lawsuit claims are being filed by individuals and communities across the country who have been exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals in their drinking water.

TruLaw is currently accepting clients with PFAS water contamination lawsuit claims.

A few reasons to choose TruLaw for your PFAS water contamination lawsuit include:

• If We Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay: The PFAS lawyers at TruLaw and our partner firms operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win.
• Expertise: We have years of experience handling environmental contamination cases similar to the PFAS water contamination lawsuits, which helps us anticipate what we can expect to see in your case and the regulations we will be required to meet.
• Successful Track Record: TruLaw and our partner law firms have helped our clients recover billions of dollars in compensation through verdicts and negotiated settlements.

If you or your community has been exposed to PFAS chemicals in your drinking water, you may be eligible to seek compensation.

Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation that can determine if you qualify to join others in filing a PFAS water contamination lawsuit claim today.