Tag: 3BL

Originally published on December 16, 2025 on Sysco.com

HOUSTON, December 18, 2025 /3BL/ -Sysco Corporation, the leading global foodservice distribution company, is excited to share that nearly 10,000 colleagues around the world volunteered every day in November, making the company’s 3rd annual Purpose Month its most successful yet.

Thousands of colleagues from 339 sites in 9 countries participated in Sysco’s Purpose Month, impacting over 1,700 individual charities in an annual quest to ease global food insecurity.

“Sysco’s Purpose Month is further evidence of our commitment to helping to ease food insecurity, to supporting the communities we serve and to living our Purpose of Connecting the World to Share Food and Care for One Another,” said Devin Graves, Sysco’s director of community impact.

Sysco’s Purpose Month originated in Canada in November 2022, when colleagues from across that country’s 16 sites rallied together against a common goal to combat hunger in local communities and to boost their volunteering and donation efforts ahead of the holiday season.

That effort was so successful that Sysco decided to expand that program globally in 2023. Since then, Sysco colleagues have donated more of their time and product each year, for a total of over 80,000 volunteer hours in three years.

“I know this is only the beginning of what we can do to make a global impact in the communities where we work and live,” Graves said. “Our colleagues across the world are passionate about helping our communities and will continue to step up to show their support.” About Sysco

About Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food and related products to customers who prepare meals away from home. This includes restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments, entertainment venues, and more. Sysco operates 339 distribution centers, in 10 countries, with 75,000 colleagues serving approximately 730,000 customer locations. The company generated sales of more than $81 billion in fiscal year 2025 that ended June 28, 2025.

As the world’s largest food-away-from-home distributor, Sysco offers customized supply chain solutions, bespoke specialty product offerings, and culinary support to drive customers to innovate and optimize their operations. We act as a trusted business partner to our customers, helping them grow through our industry-leading portfolio that includes fresh produce, premium proteins, specialty products, sustainably focused items, equipment and supplies, and innovative culinary solutions.   

For more information, visit www.sysco.com. For important news and key information for Sysco investors, visit the Investor Relations section of the company’s website at investors.sysco.com.

Follow us:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sysco/
https://www.instagram.com/syscofoodie/
https://www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods
https://x.com/Sysco

SYY-NEWS

For more information contact:

Media Contact
Ramit Masti
Ramit.Masti@sysco.com
713-703-4898

View original content here.

Originally published on December 16, 2025 on Sysco.com

HOUSTON, December 18, 2025 /3BL/ -Sysco Corporation, the leading global foodservice distribution company, is excited to share that nearly 10,000 colleagues around the world volunteered every day in November, making the company’s 3rd annual Purpose Month its most successful yet.

Thousands of colleagues from 339 sites in 9 countries participated in Sysco’s Purpose Month, impacting over 1,700 individual charities in an annual quest to ease global food insecurity.

“Sysco’s Purpose Month is further evidence of our commitment to helping to ease food insecurity, to supporting the communities we serve and to living our Purpose of Connecting the World to Share Food and Care for One Another,” said Devin Graves, Sysco’s director of community impact.

Sysco’s Purpose Month originated in Canada in November 2022, when colleagues from across that country’s 16 sites rallied together against a common goal to combat hunger in local communities and to boost their volunteering and donation efforts ahead of the holiday season.

That effort was so successful that Sysco decided to expand that program globally in 2023. Since then, Sysco colleagues have donated more of their time and product each year, for a total of over 80,000 volunteer hours in three years.

“I know this is only the beginning of what we can do to make a global impact in the communities where we work and live,” Graves said. “Our colleagues across the world are passionate about helping our communities and will continue to step up to show their support.” About Sysco

About Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food and related products to customers who prepare meals away from home. This includes restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments, entertainment venues, and more. Sysco operates 339 distribution centers, in 10 countries, with 75,000 colleagues serving approximately 730,000 customer locations. The company generated sales of more than $81 billion in fiscal year 2025 that ended June 28, 2025.

As the world’s largest food-away-from-home distributor, Sysco offers customized supply chain solutions, bespoke specialty product offerings, and culinary support to drive customers to innovate and optimize their operations. We act as a trusted business partner to our customers, helping them grow through our industry-leading portfolio that includes fresh produce, premium proteins, specialty products, sustainably focused items, equipment and supplies, and innovative culinary solutions.   

For more information, visit www.sysco.com. For important news and key information for Sysco investors, visit the Investor Relations section of the company’s website at investors.sysco.com.

Follow us:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sysco/
https://www.instagram.com/syscofoodie/
https://www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods
https://x.com/Sysco

SYY-NEWS

For more information contact:

Media Contact
Ramit Masti
Ramit.Masti@sysco.com
713-703-4898

View original content here.

ST. PAUL, Minn., December 18, 2025 /3BL/ – Data Center Safety Council (DCSC) is pleased to announce new Strategic Corporate Member Ada Infrastructure who joins previously announced Founding Members EdgeCore, Oracle, STACK Infrastructure, Salesforce, Vantage Data Centers and Yondr and Strategic Corporate Members CBRE, Digital Realty, and Flexential and QTS.

The DCSC was established to advance a unified, industry-wide approach to protecting the safety and wellbeing of personnel working in data center operations. As the sector continues its rapid expansion, the need for standardized best practices, increased knowledge sharing, and clear training and development resources has become increasingly urgent. Awareness of the unique safety hazards within these complex and often multi-employer facilities has grown significantly over the past 5–7 years, yet implementing consistent, organization-wide health and safety programs remains a challenge for many operators. The DCSC aims to drive alignment across health and safety regulations and promote a consistent, collaborative approach to addressing operational risks throughout the data center industry.

“Ada Infrastructure is proud to join the Data Center Safety Council, reinforcing our commitment to advancing global safety standards across the industry. Through this membership, we look forward to collaborating with peers, sharing best practices, and gaining insights that will strengthen our ability to deliver safe, resilient, and sustainable operations worldwide,” said Kelli Gustaf, Global Head of Environmental, Health & Safety at Ada Infrastructure.

The members of the Data Center Safety Council are all leaders in the industry and well positioned to create collective global action and consistency for the industry as a whole. The DCSC invites its data center industry peers to join this mission as we continue to grow.  DCSC is facilitated by Antea Group.

About Ada Infrastructure
Ada Infrastructure is a leading data center platform with a global footprint that serves hyperscale and enterprise customers with reliable and scalable capacity. Vertically integrated within the digital infrastructure business of Ares Management Corporation, Ada Infrastructure has eight in-flight campuses as well as a fast follow pipeline across Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. To learn more about Ada Infrastructure, visit http://www.adainfrastructure.com.

For more information, please check our website, LinkedIn page or contact the below.

Media inquiries:
Kate Asleson,
Marketing Director 
Kate.asleson@anteagroup.us                                                   

Membership inquiries:
Jennene Lyda,
Executive Director
Jennene.lyda@anteagroup.us

ST. PAUL, Minn., December 18, 2025 /3BL/ – Data Center Safety Council (DCSC) is pleased to announce new Strategic Corporate Member Ada Infrastructure who joins previously announced Founding Members EdgeCore, Oracle, STACK Infrastructure, Salesforce, Vantage Data Centers and Yondr and Strategic Corporate Members CBRE, Digital Realty, and Flexential and QTS.

The DCSC was established to advance a unified, industry-wide approach to protecting the safety and wellbeing of personnel working in data center operations. As the sector continues its rapid expansion, the need for standardized best practices, increased knowledge sharing, and clear training and development resources has become increasingly urgent. Awareness of the unique safety hazards within these complex and often multi-employer facilities has grown significantly over the past 5–7 years, yet implementing consistent, organization-wide health and safety programs remains a challenge for many operators. The DCSC aims to drive alignment across health and safety regulations and promote a consistent, collaborative approach to addressing operational risks throughout the data center industry.

“Ada Infrastructure is proud to join the Data Center Safety Council, reinforcing our commitment to advancing global safety standards across the industry. Through this membership, we look forward to collaborating with peers, sharing best practices, and gaining insights that will strengthen our ability to deliver safe, resilient, and sustainable operations worldwide,” said Kelli Gustaf, Global Head of Environmental, Health & Safety at Ada Infrastructure.

The members of the Data Center Safety Council are all leaders in the industry and well positioned to create collective global action and consistency for the industry as a whole. The DCSC invites its data center industry peers to join this mission as we continue to grow.  DCSC is facilitated by Antea Group.

About Ada Infrastructure
Ada Infrastructure is a leading data center platform with a global footprint that serves hyperscale and enterprise customers with reliable and scalable capacity. Vertically integrated within the digital infrastructure business of Ares Management Corporation, Ada Infrastructure has eight in-flight campuses as well as a fast follow pipeline across Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. To learn more about Ada Infrastructure, visit http://www.adainfrastructure.com.

For more information, please check our website, LinkedIn page or contact the below.

Media inquiries:
Kate Asleson,
Marketing Director 
Kate.asleson@anteagroup.us                                                   

Membership inquiries:
Jennene Lyda,
Executive Director
Jennene.lyda@anteagroup.us

ST. PAUL, Minn., December 18, 2025 /3BL/ – Data Center Safety Council (DCSC) is pleased to announce new Strategic Corporate Member Ada Infrastructure who joins previously announced Founding Members EdgeCore, Oracle, STACK Infrastructure, Salesforce, Vantage Data Centers and Yondr and Strategic Corporate Members CBRE, Digital Realty, and Flexential and QTS.

The DCSC was established to advance a unified, industry-wide approach to protecting the safety and wellbeing of personnel working in data center operations. As the sector continues its rapid expansion, the need for standardized best practices, increased knowledge sharing, and clear training and development resources has become increasingly urgent. Awareness of the unique safety hazards within these complex and often multi-employer facilities has grown significantly over the past 5–7 years, yet implementing consistent, organization-wide health and safety programs remains a challenge for many operators. The DCSC aims to drive alignment across health and safety regulations and promote a consistent, collaborative approach to addressing operational risks throughout the data center industry.

“Ada Infrastructure is proud to join the Data Center Safety Council, reinforcing our commitment to advancing global safety standards across the industry. Through this membership, we look forward to collaborating with peers, sharing best practices, and gaining insights that will strengthen our ability to deliver safe, resilient, and sustainable operations worldwide,” said Kelli Gustaf, Global Head of Environmental, Health & Safety at Ada Infrastructure.

The members of the Data Center Safety Council are all leaders in the industry and well positioned to create collective global action and consistency for the industry as a whole. The DCSC invites its data center industry peers to join this mission as we continue to grow.  DCSC is facilitated by Antea Group.

About Ada Infrastructure
Ada Infrastructure is a leading data center platform with a global footprint that serves hyperscale and enterprise customers with reliable and scalable capacity. Vertically integrated within the digital infrastructure business of Ares Management Corporation, Ada Infrastructure has eight in-flight campuses as well as a fast follow pipeline across Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. To learn more about Ada Infrastructure, visit http://www.adainfrastructure.com.

For more information, please check our website, LinkedIn page or contact the below.

Media inquiries:
Kate Asleson,
Marketing Director 
Kate.asleson@anteagroup.us                                                   

Membership inquiries:
Jennene Lyda,
Executive Director
Jennene.lyda@anteagroup.us

ST. PAUL, Minn., December 18, 2025 /3BL/ – Data Center Safety Council (DCSC) is pleased to announce new Strategic Corporate Member Ada Infrastructure who joins previously announced Founding Members EdgeCore, Oracle, STACK Infrastructure, Salesforce, Vantage Data Centers and Yondr and Strategic Corporate Members CBRE, Digital Realty, and Flexential and QTS.

The DCSC was established to advance a unified, industry-wide approach to protecting the safety and wellbeing of personnel working in data center operations. As the sector continues its rapid expansion, the need for standardized best practices, increased knowledge sharing, and clear training and development resources has become increasingly urgent. Awareness of the unique safety hazards within these complex and often multi-employer facilities has grown significantly over the past 5–7 years, yet implementing consistent, organization-wide health and safety programs remains a challenge for many operators. The DCSC aims to drive alignment across health and safety regulations and promote a consistent, collaborative approach to addressing operational risks throughout the data center industry.

“Ada Infrastructure is proud to join the Data Center Safety Council, reinforcing our commitment to advancing global safety standards across the industry. Through this membership, we look forward to collaborating with peers, sharing best practices, and gaining insights that will strengthen our ability to deliver safe, resilient, and sustainable operations worldwide,” said Kelli Gustaf, Global Head of Environmental, Health & Safety at Ada Infrastructure.

The members of the Data Center Safety Council are all leaders in the industry and well positioned to create collective global action and consistency for the industry as a whole. The DCSC invites its data center industry peers to join this mission as we continue to grow.  DCSC is facilitated by Antea Group.

About Ada Infrastructure
Ada Infrastructure is a leading data center platform with a global footprint that serves hyperscale and enterprise customers with reliable and scalable capacity. Vertically integrated within the digital infrastructure business of Ares Management Corporation, Ada Infrastructure has eight in-flight campuses as well as a fast follow pipeline across Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. To learn more about Ada Infrastructure, visit http://www.adainfrastructure.com.

For more information, please check our website, LinkedIn page or contact the below.

Media inquiries:
Kate Asleson,
Marketing Director 
Kate.asleson@anteagroup.us                                                   

Membership inquiries:
Jennene Lyda,
Executive Director
Jennene.lyda@anteagroup.us

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)-related litigation continues to morph and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Recent legal developments illustrate diverging strategies and emerging precedents for future cases. 

It’s important to note that airports operate under a complex regulatory framework where federal mandates (from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)) often dictate operational and safety requirements. Because of this, PFAS responsibilities can differ substantially from other site types. Once contamination leaves airport property, however, additional state and local authorities increasingly come into play. 

Against this backdrop, several states are now testing new legal strategies to recover PFAS cleanup costs, most notably New Mexico, New York, and Michigan.

New Mexico: Setting the Stage 

In July 2024, New Mexico set the stage as the first state to take a targeted stance in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) by seeking to add Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Superfund cost recovery claims to its existing tort claims against the United States. This strategy leverages EPA’s designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under CERCLA, enabling states to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanup costs.1 New Mexico’s move signaled a shift toward using federal environmental statutes to supplement traditional tort theories—and other states are now following suit.  

“Thanks to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s science-driven leadership on PFAS, New Mexico will now hold the U.S. Department of Defense accountable for the monetary costs of clean-up and damages to our environment.” — James Kenney, New Mexico Environment Department Secretary

New York: Adding Superfund Claims to AFFF MDL 

Following New Mexico’s lead, New York has moved to add Superfund cost recovery claims under CERCLA to its existing tort claims against the United States in the massive AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Let’s review the details of the case:  

• Basis for Claims: New York cites EPA’s 2024 rule designating PFOA and PFOS as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA, which the agency reaffirmed in 2025 despite industry challenges.
• Relief Sought:
  • Costs for investigating, monitoring, and cleaning up PFAS contamination from AFFF.
  • Damages for injuries to natural resources.
  • Creation of a monetary abatement fund for future costs.
• Scope: The claims reference contamination at four former or current Air Force or Air National Guard bases in New York.
• Specifically, “New York is asking Judge Richard Gergel to allow it to amend its complaint to add CERCLA claims, citing EPA’s hazardous substance designation as critical support.”  

Implication: If successful, this approach could broaden recovery options for states and municipalities, leveraging CERCLA’s strict liability framework to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanups. 

Michigan: Court Rejects State Enforcement Against Airport 

On November 22, 2025, a Michigan state court dismissed the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) enforcement action against Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIAA). 

• State’s Position: EGLE alleged the airport violated Michigan’s Natural Resources & Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) by failing to obtain permits and sought fines, cleanup costs, and attorneys’ fees for PFAS contamination from AFFF use.
• Court’s Ruling: Judge George Quist found that federal aviation safety law preempts state cleanup mandates, noting that AFFF use was required by FAA regulations:
• “The use of AFFF is a matter of aviation safety, and federal law governs its application.”
• “State and federal regulations put the airport in an impossible situation regarding compliance.”  —Judge Quist 

Implication: This ruling may influence other states considering similar actions against commercial airports. If airports cannot be held liable under state law due to federal preemption, states may pivot toward federal cost recovery or target manufacturers instead. 

Broader Context 

• EPA’s CERCLA Designation: In April 2024, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, triggering reporting requirements and expanding potential liability for cleanup costs. The rule remains in effect following the EPA’s 2025 reaffirmation.
• State Enforcement Trends: So far, Michigan and Washington are the only states that have pursued commercial airports for PFAS cleanups, though litigation against military bases is widespread.
• MDL Landscape: The AFFF MDL now includes over 10,000 cases, with billions in settlements already paid by manufacturers like 3M and DuPont.

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders 

• Evolving Litigation Landscape: PFAS-related litigation continues to change and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
• Two back-to-back developments in New York and Michigan highlight diverging strategies and potential precedents for future cases.
• Airports: Federal preemption may shield airports from state enforcement but does not eliminate reputational risk or potential federal cost recovery claims.
• Insurers & Risk Managers: CERCLA designation significantly expands liability exposure for PFAS contamination, making environmental insurance and contractual indemnities critical.
• States & Municipalities: Expect more states to follow NM, NY & MI lead in leveraging CERCLA claims to recover PFAS cleanup costs

Have any questions?

Contact us to discuss your environment, health, safety, and sustainability needs today.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)-related litigation continues to morph and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Recent legal developments illustrate diverging strategies and emerging precedents for future cases. 

It’s important to note that airports operate under a complex regulatory framework where federal mandates (from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)) often dictate operational and safety requirements. Because of this, PFAS responsibilities can differ substantially from other site types. Once contamination leaves airport property, however, additional state and local authorities increasingly come into play. 

Against this backdrop, several states are now testing new legal strategies to recover PFAS cleanup costs, most notably New Mexico, New York, and Michigan.

New Mexico: Setting the Stage 

In July 2024, New Mexico set the stage as the first state to take a targeted stance in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) by seeking to add Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Superfund cost recovery claims to its existing tort claims against the United States. This strategy leverages EPA’s designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under CERCLA, enabling states to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanup costs.1 New Mexico’s move signaled a shift toward using federal environmental statutes to supplement traditional tort theories—and other states are now following suit.  

“Thanks to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s science-driven leadership on PFAS, New Mexico will now hold the U.S. Department of Defense accountable for the monetary costs of clean-up and damages to our environment.” — James Kenney, New Mexico Environment Department Secretary

New York: Adding Superfund Claims to AFFF MDL 

Following New Mexico’s lead, New York has moved to add Superfund cost recovery claims under CERCLA to its existing tort claims against the United States in the massive AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Let’s review the details of the case:  

• Basis for Claims: New York cites EPA’s 2024 rule designating PFOA and PFOS as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA, which the agency reaffirmed in 2025 despite industry challenges.
• Relief Sought:
  • Costs for investigating, monitoring, and cleaning up PFAS contamination from AFFF.
  • Damages for injuries to natural resources.
  • Creation of a monetary abatement fund for future costs.
• Scope: The claims reference contamination at four former or current Air Force or Air National Guard bases in New York.
• Specifically, “New York is asking Judge Richard Gergel to allow it to amend its complaint to add CERCLA claims, citing EPA’s hazardous substance designation as critical support.”  

Implication: If successful, this approach could broaden recovery options for states and municipalities, leveraging CERCLA’s strict liability framework to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanups. 

Michigan: Court Rejects State Enforcement Against Airport 

On November 22, 2025, a Michigan state court dismissed the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) enforcement action against Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIAA). 

• State’s Position: EGLE alleged the airport violated Michigan’s Natural Resources & Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) by failing to obtain permits and sought fines, cleanup costs, and attorneys’ fees for PFAS contamination from AFFF use.
• Court’s Ruling: Judge George Quist found that federal aviation safety law preempts state cleanup mandates, noting that AFFF use was required by FAA regulations:
• “The use of AFFF is a matter of aviation safety, and federal law governs its application.”
• “State and federal regulations put the airport in an impossible situation regarding compliance.”  —Judge Quist 

Implication: This ruling may influence other states considering similar actions against commercial airports. If airports cannot be held liable under state law due to federal preemption, states may pivot toward federal cost recovery or target manufacturers instead. 

Broader Context 

• EPA’s CERCLA Designation: In April 2024, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, triggering reporting requirements and expanding potential liability for cleanup costs. The rule remains in effect following the EPA’s 2025 reaffirmation.
• State Enforcement Trends: So far, Michigan and Washington are the only states that have pursued commercial airports for PFAS cleanups, though litigation against military bases is widespread.
• MDL Landscape: The AFFF MDL now includes over 10,000 cases, with billions in settlements already paid by manufacturers like 3M and DuPont.

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders 

• Evolving Litigation Landscape: PFAS-related litigation continues to change and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
• Two back-to-back developments in New York and Michigan highlight diverging strategies and potential precedents for future cases.
• Airports: Federal preemption may shield airports from state enforcement but does not eliminate reputational risk or potential federal cost recovery claims.
• Insurers & Risk Managers: CERCLA designation significantly expands liability exposure for PFAS contamination, making environmental insurance and contractual indemnities critical.
• States & Municipalities: Expect more states to follow NM, NY & MI lead in leveraging CERCLA claims to recover PFAS cleanup costs

Have any questions?

Contact us to discuss your environment, health, safety, and sustainability needs today.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)-related litigation continues to morph and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Recent legal developments illustrate diverging strategies and emerging precedents for future cases. 

It’s important to note that airports operate under a complex regulatory framework where federal mandates (from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)) often dictate operational and safety requirements. Because of this, PFAS responsibilities can differ substantially from other site types. Once contamination leaves airport property, however, additional state and local authorities increasingly come into play. 

Against this backdrop, several states are now testing new legal strategies to recover PFAS cleanup costs, most notably New Mexico, New York, and Michigan.

New Mexico: Setting the Stage 

In July 2024, New Mexico set the stage as the first state to take a targeted stance in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) by seeking to add Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Superfund cost recovery claims to its existing tort claims against the United States. This strategy leverages EPA’s designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under CERCLA, enabling states to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanup costs.1 New Mexico’s move signaled a shift toward using federal environmental statutes to supplement traditional tort theories—and other states are now following suit.  

“Thanks to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s science-driven leadership on PFAS, New Mexico will now hold the U.S. Department of Defense accountable for the monetary costs of clean-up and damages to our environment.” — James Kenney, New Mexico Environment Department Secretary

New York: Adding Superfund Claims to AFFF MDL 

Following New Mexico’s lead, New York has moved to add Superfund cost recovery claims under CERCLA to its existing tort claims against the United States in the massive AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Let’s review the details of the case:  

• Basis for Claims: New York cites EPA’s 2024 rule designating PFOA and PFOS as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA, which the agency reaffirmed in 2025 despite industry challenges.
• Relief Sought:
  • Costs for investigating, monitoring, and cleaning up PFAS contamination from AFFF.
  • Damages for injuries to natural resources.
  • Creation of a monetary abatement fund for future costs.
• Scope: The claims reference contamination at four former or current Air Force or Air National Guard bases in New York.
• Specifically, “New York is asking Judge Richard Gergel to allow it to amend its complaint to add CERCLA claims, citing EPA’s hazardous substance designation as critical support.”  

Implication: If successful, this approach could broaden recovery options for states and municipalities, leveraging CERCLA’s strict liability framework to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanups. 

Michigan: Court Rejects State Enforcement Against Airport 

On November 22, 2025, a Michigan state court dismissed the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) enforcement action against Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIAA). 

• State’s Position: EGLE alleged the airport violated Michigan’s Natural Resources & Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) by failing to obtain permits and sought fines, cleanup costs, and attorneys’ fees for PFAS contamination from AFFF use.
• Court’s Ruling: Judge George Quist found that federal aviation safety law preempts state cleanup mandates, noting that AFFF use was required by FAA regulations:
• “The use of AFFF is a matter of aviation safety, and federal law governs its application.”
• “State and federal regulations put the airport in an impossible situation regarding compliance.”  —Judge Quist 

Implication: This ruling may influence other states considering similar actions against commercial airports. If airports cannot be held liable under state law due to federal preemption, states may pivot toward federal cost recovery or target manufacturers instead. 

Broader Context 

• EPA’s CERCLA Designation: In April 2024, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, triggering reporting requirements and expanding potential liability for cleanup costs. The rule remains in effect following the EPA’s 2025 reaffirmation.
• State Enforcement Trends: So far, Michigan and Washington are the only states that have pursued commercial airports for PFAS cleanups, though litigation against military bases is widespread.
• MDL Landscape: The AFFF MDL now includes over 10,000 cases, with billions in settlements already paid by manufacturers like 3M and DuPont.

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders 

• Evolving Litigation Landscape: PFAS-related litigation continues to change and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
• Two back-to-back developments in New York and Michigan highlight diverging strategies and potential precedents for future cases.
• Airports: Federal preemption may shield airports from state enforcement but does not eliminate reputational risk or potential federal cost recovery claims.
• Insurers & Risk Managers: CERCLA designation significantly expands liability exposure for PFAS contamination, making environmental insurance and contractual indemnities critical.
• States & Municipalities: Expect more states to follow NM, NY & MI lead in leveraging CERCLA claims to recover PFAS cleanup costs

Have any questions?

Contact us to discuss your environment, health, safety, and sustainability needs today.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)-related litigation continues to morph and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Recent legal developments illustrate diverging strategies and emerging precedents for future cases. 

It’s important to note that airports operate under a complex regulatory framework where federal mandates (from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)) often dictate operational and safety requirements. Because of this, PFAS responsibilities can differ substantially from other site types. Once contamination leaves airport property, however, additional state and local authorities increasingly come into play. 

Against this backdrop, several states are now testing new legal strategies to recover PFAS cleanup costs, most notably New Mexico, New York, and Michigan.

New Mexico: Setting the Stage 

In July 2024, New Mexico set the stage as the first state to take a targeted stance in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) by seeking to add Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Superfund cost recovery claims to its existing tort claims against the United States. This strategy leverages EPA’s designation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under CERCLA, enabling states to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanup costs.1 New Mexico’s move signaled a shift toward using federal environmental statutes to supplement traditional tort theories—and other states are now following suit.  

“Thanks to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s science-driven leadership on PFAS, New Mexico will now hold the U.S. Department of Defense accountable for the monetary costs of clean-up and damages to our environment.” — James Kenney, New Mexico Environment Department Secretary

New York: Adding Superfund Claims to AFFF MDL 

Following New Mexico’s lead, New York has moved to add Superfund cost recovery claims under CERCLA to its existing tort claims against the United States in the massive AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Let’s review the details of the case:  

• Basis for Claims: New York cites EPA’s 2024 rule designating PFOA and PFOS as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA, which the agency reaffirmed in 2025 despite industry challenges.
• Relief Sought:
  • Costs for investigating, monitoring, and cleaning up PFAS contamination from AFFF.
  • Damages for injuries to natural resources.
  • Creation of a monetary abatement fund for future costs.
• Scope: The claims reference contamination at four former or current Air Force or Air National Guard bases in New York.
• Specifically, “New York is asking Judge Richard Gergel to allow it to amend its complaint to add CERCLA claims, citing EPA’s hazardous substance designation as critical support.”  

Implication: If successful, this approach could broaden recovery options for states and municipalities, leveraging CERCLA’s strict liability framework to pursue federal cost-sharing for PFAS cleanups. 

Michigan: Court Rejects State Enforcement Against Airport 

On November 22, 2025, a Michigan state court dismissed the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) enforcement action against Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GFIAA). 

• State’s Position: EGLE alleged the airport violated Michigan’s Natural Resources & Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) by failing to obtain permits and sought fines, cleanup costs, and attorneys’ fees for PFAS contamination from AFFF use.
• Court’s Ruling: Judge George Quist found that federal aviation safety law preempts state cleanup mandates, noting that AFFF use was required by FAA regulations:
• “The use of AFFF is a matter of aviation safety, and federal law governs its application.”
• “State and federal regulations put the airport in an impossible situation regarding compliance.”  —Judge Quist 

Implication: This ruling may influence other states considering similar actions against commercial airports. If airports cannot be held liable under state law due to federal preemption, states may pivot toward federal cost recovery or target manufacturers instead. 

Broader Context 

• EPA’s CERCLA Designation: In April 2024, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, triggering reporting requirements and expanding potential liability for cleanup costs. The rule remains in effect following the EPA’s 2025 reaffirmation.
• State Enforcement Trends: So far, Michigan and Washington are the only states that have pursued commercial airports for PFAS cleanups, though litigation against military bases is widespread.
• MDL Landscape: The AFFF MDL now includes over 10,000 cases, with billions in settlements already paid by manufacturers like 3M and DuPont.

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders 

• Evolving Litigation Landscape: PFAS-related litigation continues to change and expand, with states increasingly targeting airports for contamination linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
• Two back-to-back developments in New York and Michigan highlight diverging strategies and potential precedents for future cases.
• Airports: Federal preemption may shield airports from state enforcement but does not eliminate reputational risk or potential federal cost recovery claims.
• Insurers & Risk Managers: CERCLA designation significantly expands liability exposure for PFAS contamination, making environmental insurance and contractual indemnities critical.
• States & Municipalities: Expect more states to follow NM, NY & MI lead in leveraging CERCLA claims to recover PFAS cleanup costs

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