To the editor,

I want to thank State Rep. Terri Cortvriend (District 72-Portsmouth, Middletown) and State Sen. Jim Seveney (District 11-Bristol, Portsmouth, Tiverton), for sponsoring legislation that will ban PFAS, a class of highly persistent toxic chemicals, from food packaging in the state. 

PFAS add a grease, oil or water resistance to certain materials and are found in products like food packaging, cookware, carpets, cosmetics, outdoor apparel and firefighting foam. Research has linked long-term exposure to PFAS to certain cancers, thyroid problems and reproductive issues. 

The legislation sponsored by Rep. Cortvriend and Sen. Seveney, which passed the General Assembly last week, adds PFAS to the list of toxic chemicals already banned in food packaging sold in the state. 

Thank you, Rep. Cortvriend and Sen. Seveney, for your leadership on this important issue, and for your work to make Rhode Island a healthier, safer place to live. 

Jed Thorp

Rhode Island state director,

Clean Water Action

Providence