State Supreme Court votes to eliminate harmful chemicals in environment; Gov. Evers, AG Kaul share thoughts

MADISON, Wis (CIVIC MEDIA) – The state Supreme Court approved the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) authority to clean and report harmful contaminants in Wisconsin’s environment in a ruling Tuesday.

In a 5-2 decision, the Supreme Court will allow the DNR to eliminate dangerous chemicals such as PFAS. The vote also upholds Wisconsin’s Spills Law, which regulates the discharge of harmful substances into the environment.

Governor Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul demonstrated their support of the ruling in individual statements:

“This is a historic victory for the people of Wisconsin and my administration’s fight against PFAS and other harmful contaminants that are affecting families and communities across our state,” Gov. Evers stated. “The Supreme Court’s decision today means that polluters will not have free rein to discharge harmful contaminants like PFAS into our land, water, and air without reporting it or taking responsibility for helping clean up those contaminants. It’s a great day for Wisconsinites and the work to protect and preserve our state’s valuable natural resources for future generations.”

“This ruling for DNR is a win for the protection of our environment,” said Attorney General Kaul. “A contrary ruling would have significantly weakened our Spills Law.”

Additional details on the Supreme Court’s decision can be found here.