Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit [2025 Update]

The Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Vermont’s pristine mountain wilderness contains ample fresh water resources and natural beauty. However, some drinking water supplies across the state have been contaminated. Vermonters who drink contaminated water, especially over a prolonged period, risk serious health complications, including cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis. Many of these individuals are fighting back by filing water contamination lawsuits.

Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview

Though Vermont is one of the most rural states in the nation, the Green Mountain State has played host to industries and military bases that have left their mark on its water resources. Pollutants from these sites have contaminated water sources in places like Bennington, elevating health risks for some residents.

State governments have only recently begun to take action against one particular form of water pollution: PFAS, sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals.” These persistent chemicals can accumulate in the body over time. King Law is dedicated to helping individuals harmed by these substances seek compensation for their injuries, expenses, and pain and suffering.

Timeline of Water Contamination in Vermont | 2025 Update

Vermont has acted on PFAS contamination relatively quickly, passing definitive regulations on the chemicals sooner than many other states. However, some sites around the state are still suffering from persistent contamination.

April 2025: After nullifying previous PFAS guidelines, the EPA releases a new action plan for PFAS. Guidance on PFAS will now be updated annually rather than every three years.

April 2025: The Town of Bennington, Vermont, extends water lines to some households with contaminated well water, in an effort to provide clean drinking water to residents.

January 2025: President Trump signs an executive order rolling back proposed EPA guidelines on PFAS.

December 2023: The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation releases a PFAS roadmap for VT, outlining steps to keep additional PFAS from entering the state’s water and mitigate the contamination already present.

October 2023: Vermont bans class B firefighting foam that has PFAS intentionally added to it.

May 2019: Vermont sets an MCL (maximum contaminant level) of 20 ppt (parts per trillion) in drinking water for five PFAS chemicals. At the time, it is one of the most aggressive standards in the nation.

September 2017: The Bennington report is released, linking PFOA in local blood samples to water contamination. The report recommends a PFOA MCL (maximum contaminant level) of 20 ppt for water usage.

2016: Vermont conducts an investigation into PFAS contamination in groundwater in Bennington and North Bennington.

About the Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit

Sources of Water Contamination in Vermont

Water contamination can have many different causes. Water pollution can be localized near the source of the contamination or migrate from the original contamination site as water moves. Common sources of water contamination include:

• Military bases and airports
• Industrial sites
• Landfills
• Agriculture
• Improper waste disposal
• Sewage and water treatment
• Floods and natural disasters
• Old piping and water infrastructure

One of the newer threats to drinking water comes in the form of PFAS, which are synthetic organic compounds that are highly resistant to decay, giving them the nickname “forever chemicals.” These chemicals can accumulate in the body and cause numerous health issues. One of the most notable sources of PFAS water contamination in Vermont is the site of a former ChemFab factory that produced Teflon-coated products near Bennington. Additional sources include military base sites and fire stations.

Water Contamination From Military Installations

For decades, military bases suppressed fires using aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which is particularly effective at smothering Class B fires (involving combustible liquids like oil). Unfortunately, the PFAS used in AFFF easily seep into nearby surface water, soils, and groundwater.

Vermont has fewer military installations than most states, but PFAS contamination has been detected at these sites:

• Burlington International Airport (2018): 72,000 ppt for PFOS and PFOA
• Chittenden County (2018): 47,300 ppt for PFOS and PFOA
• Camp Ethan Allen (2017-2018): 115.6 ppt for total PFAS
• Westminster TNG Site (2017): 5.5 ppt for total PFAS
• North Hyde Park TNG Site (2017): 6 ppt for total PFAS

Vermont’s Regulations for Drinking Water

Vermont’s drinking water is subject to regulation at both the state and federal levels. Long-known contaminants like lead are regulated at the federal level, while PFAS are currently regulated by states as they await formal EPA guidance. Like other states, Vermont is required to enforce federal regulations, but may impose stricter standards at its discretion.

Here are some of Vermont’s drinking water regulations:

• PFAS: Vermont tests for and sets an action level of 20 ppt for PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHpA, and PFHxS. Although the federal government does not currently have any enforceable regulations on PFAS, the EPA has previously suggested a limit of 4 ppt for PFAS.
• Lead: Vermont follows the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule, setting an action limit of 15 ppb (parts per billion) for lead.
• Copper: Vermont enforces the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule, which requires action at 1.3 parts per million.
• Arsenic: The action level for arsenic is 10 ppb, in line with federal regulations.
• Trichloroethane: Vermont follows EPA regulations on trichloroethane, setting an MCL of 80 ppb.
• Radionuclides: Vermont sets a uranium MCL of 20 ppm, which exceeds the federal limit of 30 ppm.

Vermont acted earlier than many states on PFAS, establishing regulations prior to 2020. The state continues to address PFAS contamination in the southwestern portion of the state, extending water lines to households with contaminated groundwater. Much of the remaining PFAS contamination is in Vermont’s relatively populous Chittenden County.

Vermont has more recently been struggling with the presence of disinfectants in its drinking water system, which is likely the result of recent flooding.

Vermont Water Contamination Map

Water contamination in Vermont tends to be in proximity to military, airport, or industrial sites like Burlington International Airport or Bennington’s former ChemFab plant. Water contamination tends to move with the water itself, potentially distributing pollutants far from the initial site. Additionally, PFAS concentrations observed at contaminated sites can sometimes actually increase over time.

Contaminants Found in Vermont  Drinking Water

There are many contaminants Vermonters don’t want in their drinking water. At high levels, these substances can impact residents’ health and well-being. Children, in particular, tend to be vulnerable to water contamination.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

PFAS are human-made organic substances with strong carbon-fluorine bonds. These bonds make them extremely resistant to decomposition. These substances have many useful qualities, like repelling water, creating wrinkle-free fabrics, and AFFFs that can put out dangerous Class B fires. Unfortunately, they tend to stick around in the environment and can accumulate in groundwater, surface water, and human bodies.

The PFAS category includes thousands of synthetic compounds. Of particular concern are PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFHpA, PFNA, and GenX (HFPO-DA).

PFAS exposure is linked to numerous health conditions, including cancer, birth defects, thyroid disease, and lowered immune response.

Lead

Some of Vermont’s drinking water may have lead at unsafe levels. Lead is a heavy metal that can cause developmental, neurological, and kidney damage if consumed in substantial quantities, especially by children. Though lead is naturally occurring, it doesn’t typically wind up in drinking water without human activities.

One of the main vectors for lead contamination is old water pipes, which often contain lead. As the pipes degrade, they can leach lead into the water running through them. Replacement of aging water systems remains a key battleground in the fight against lead contamination.

Trihalomethanes

While PFAS and lead are persistent national drinking water issues, Vermont has recently been struggling with trihalomethanes (TTHMs), a class of contaminant found in excess levels in 72% of all Vermonters’ drinking water in recent sampling, likely the result of higher-than-normal flood events that have inundated water systems.

Classified as disinfection byproducts, TTHMs are, ironically, a byproduct of water disinfection. Long-term exposure to TTHMs can raise cancer risks.

Radionuclides

Mountainous Vermont has several types of naturally occurring radioactive elements in its rocks, including uranium and radium. These can cause short-term illness as well as increase the risk of kidney damage and cancer. Around 19% of Vermont’s population was exposed to drinking water with radium levels exceeding federal guidelines of 5 picoCuries per liter. Uranium contamination, which Vermont regulates more strictly than the federal government, affected less than 1% of Vermonters in recent sampling.

Current Water Quality in Vermont

Though Vermont was early to PFAS regulation, other nearby states like New York (10 ppt) and Pennsylvania (14–18 ppt) have since set more stringent rules. Currently, an annually collected sample of 20 ppt will trigger a Do Not Drink notice. Three public water systems were confirmed to have PFAS above that limit in 2019.

The groundwater situation in Vermont is unclear because there is no requirement to test private sources for PFAS. Around 40% of Vermonters get their water from private wells. Widespread groundwater contamination has been detected in Bennington.

Additionally, TTHM contamination has been a recent problem due to flooding. While it’s generally considered a short-term problem, residents should check for guidance on any additional steps necessary to reduce their consumption of TTHMs.

Water Treatment Efforts in Vermont

Vermont’s PFAS action plan outlines steps the state is taking to fight PFAS contamination. Measures taken in the plan include:

• Banning PFAS in firefighting foam, food packaging, ski wax, and residential carpets
• Phased in restrictions on use of PFAS products
• PFAS products that are not banned will require labeling
• Working with other New England states on PFAS standards
• Investigate PFAS in private water supplies
• Study PFAS in recycled food and food packaging waste
• Use $1.25 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to investigate PFAS in municipal wastewater and reduce or eliminate PFAS sources in select communities
• Treatment systems installation where needed

Health Risks and Symptoms Linked to Drinking Water in Vermont

Depending on the type of contamination, the amount of exposure, and the length of exposure, people who drink contaminated water may suffer adverse effects. High-profile lawsuits like the Fort Ord case illustrate the health risks of PFAS contamination, for example.

PFAS water contamination is a concern throughout the state of Vermont. Unsafe levels of these chemicals are linked to:

• Birth defects
• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Decreased vaccine effectiveness
• Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Lowered immune response
• Multiple-myeloma
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Reproductive issues
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Ulcerative colitis

Eligibility Criteria for the Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit

To be eligible for a Vermont water contamination lawsuit, there are several criteria an individual must meet:

Length of Exposure: Individuals must have lived or worked in Vermont for at least six months during the identified contamination period.

Eligible Diagnoses: Our firm is evaluating cases related to PFAS exposure, with a diagnosis of:

• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Ulcerative colitis

Supporting Documents: Necessary documentation includes medical records supporting diagnoses, as well as proof of residence or employment during the contamination period.

These elements are critical in building a strong legal claim and solidifying any chance for compensation. Consulting with experienced attorneys, like those at King Law, is essential to navigate the legal process effectively.

Vermont Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Water contamination settlement payout amounts can vary significantly, with typical payouts ranging between $30,000 and $300,000. Getting a settlement, particularly a large one, depends on the strength of your case and the amount of harm you or a loved one suffered. Relatively minor injuries will generally have lower payouts. Individuals exposed at a younger age or who are expected to face more years of disability may qualify for more compensation.

Building a strong case requires strong supporting evidence. The ability to link an official, qualifying medical diagnosis with 6 to 12 months or more of exposure will add weight to a claim. Tracking financial costs related to your illness, like medical bills, will help to show economic damages suffered due to one’s exposure to water contaminants.

How to File a Vermont Water Contamination Lawsuit

Filing an effective water contamination lawsuit in Vermont will take some time and effort. Working with a law firm experienced in environmental or personal injury can help. Our firm can help you file a lawsuit if you were injured by PFAS in drinking water.

Here are the steps for filing:

1. Initial Consultation: Knowing whether to file is an important first step. A consultation with a law firm can help determine the strength of your case and what to expect if you move forward.
2. Compile Evidence: Collecting documentation that supports the narrative of your water contamination injury will form the foundation of your case.
3. Legal Filing: This is the creation, completion, and submission of formal legal documents. These must be filed within the statute of limitations in Vermont, barring exemptions.
4. Pre-Trial Procedures: Your attorney and the defense’s legal team will exchange evidence. Interrogations and depositions may also take place at this time.
5. Settlement Negotiations: A PFAS manufacturer may offer you a settlement instead of bringing your case to trial. Your lawyer can advise you on whether or not to accept a settlement.
6. Trial: In cases where a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. A judge or jury will determine liability and payouts, if any.

Evidence to Support Your VT Water Contamination Claim:

Building a portfolio of quality evidence will help increase the likelihood of a fair settlement being reached. Evidence will typically fall into one of these categories:

Proof of Residence: You’ll want to present items like leases, utility bills, mortgage payments, and other documents showing that you lived in an affected area for at least 6 to 12 months. If you were injured while enlisted, you should collect your DD-214 and any other service records you can access. These records will help you file a lawsuit related to contaminated water on a military base.

Proof of Employment: If you worked in an affected area, and particularly if you didn’t reside in it, you’ll want to show proof of employment. This can include pay stubs, contracts, and W2/1099 forms.

Environmental Studies: Environmental studies are important for establishing an area in which you worked or resided had dangerous levels of water contamination. Your legal team will work to procure these documents.

Medical Documents and Expenses: Medical diagnoses show that you or a loved one have a medical condition related to water contamination and any resulting disabilities. Your medical bills can demonstrate that you suffered financial losses related to your diagnosis.

Expert Testimonies and Personal Statements: These can fortify your case and help establish links between your exposure to water contamination and your injuries, as well as how severely you’ve been impacted.

Statute of Limitations for Vermont Water Contamination Claims

Personal injury claims must be filed within a window called the statute of limitations. In Vermont, the statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of injury. However, in some cases, the statute of limitations may begin when you discover your injury. Other exemptions may apply, such as being exposed as a minor or injured during military deployment.

Knowing whether you’re within the statute of limitations is not always obvious, so it’s important to be proactive and consult with a lawyer quickly if you suspect you’ve been injured by water contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Learn more about water contamination in Vermont with answers to these frequently asked questions: