On Dec. 5, 2024, the West Virginia Rivers Coalition Inc. (“WV Rivers”) filed a lawsuit against The Chemours Company FC, LLC (“Chemours”) for ongoing and dangerous violations of the Clean Water Act at its Washington Works facility. This legal action underscores WV Rivers’ unwavering commitment to protecting public health and West Virginia’s waterways from the harmful impacts of hazardous PFAS chemicals. 

Chemours has consistently failed to comply with the discharge limits prescribed by its Clean Water Act permit, allowing excessive PFAS pollution into the Ohio River. Despite a Compliance Order issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2023, these violations have continued unabated. 

Autumn Crowe, WV Rivers Deputy Director, stated: “PFAS contamination poses a direct threat to public health and our waterways. Chemours has had ample time to comply with its discharge permit, yet these violations persist. This lawsuit is our response to the company’s refusal to prioritize clean water and public health.” 

Taking the helm as WV Rivers’ new Executive Director, Jennie Smith, commented: “In 2024, it is outlandish for a corporation to continuously flout the Clean Water Act and state water quality standards. Chemours’ actions show a disregard for the law and the health of our communities. Our coalition is standing firm, demanding accountability, and working to ensure that corporations like Chemours are held to the highest standards of compliance.” 

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as “forever chemicals” because of their persistence in the environment and links to severe health impacts, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental issues. This lawsuit seeks injunctive relief and civil penalties to ensure compliance and prevent further harm to West Virginia’s waterways. 

Smith concluded: “Our rivers and communities deserve better. This legal action sends a clear message: no one is above the law, and no one can jeopardize our health and environment without consequences. Together, we will safeguard clean water for generations to come.”