Rhode Island Delegation Seeks EPA Help for Tiverton PFAS Contamination
Rhode Island's congressional delegation, including Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, and Representative Gabe Amo, have formally requested assistance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address widespread PFAS contamination found in private wells in Tiverton, Rhode Island. The delegation…
Providence New Bedford, RI, September 22, 2026 —
Rhode Island’s congressional delegation has formally requested assistance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address significant contamination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in private wells in Tiverton, Rhode Island. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with Representative Gabe Amo, sent a formal request to the federal agency outlining the concerns and seeking support for remediation efforts.
The delegation’s request highlights findings from recent water testing that indicate widespread PFAS contamination across Tiverton. According to the representatives, a considerable number of private wells tested in the town have shown levels of these chemicals exceeding the established safety standards set by the state of Rhode Island. Furthermore, the delegation noted that some of the tested wells recorded PFAS levels that are the highest ever detected within the state.
PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are a group of man-made substances that can accumulate in the human body and the environment. They have been linked to a range of health issues. The presence of these contaminants in drinking water sources is a growing concern for communities nationwide.
The formal request to the EPA signifies a call for federal intervention and resources to help mitigate the impact of PFAS contamination on Tiverton residents. The specific nature of the assistance sought from the EPA was not detailed in the provided summary, nor were specific timelines for potential action or further investigation mentioned. The delegation’s action underscores the severity of the contamination issue as identified through recent testing.
The contractor responsible for the well testing and the exact number of wells affected were not specified in the delegation’s communication. Additionally, the specific PFAS compounds detected, their concentrations, and the precise location of the affected wells within Tiverton were not included in the summary. The state’s specific safety standard for PFAS in drinking water was also not elaborated upon. The delegation is looking to the EPA for guidance and potential solutions to ensure safe drinking water for the affected residents.
Story summarized from the original created by Ryan Belmore on whatsupnewp.com, see more information here.
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