Maryland Sues Maker Of Gore-Tex Over Forever Chemicals Pollution

Maryland has filed a lawsuit against the company responsible for producing the waterproof material Gore-Tex, commonly used in raincoats and outdoor gear.

The complaint alleges the company polluted air and water with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), endangering nearby communities while profiting from its operations. I Photo: Gore-Tex Facebook

The state accuses the company of knowingly using harmful "forever chemicals" despite being aware of their serious health risks, Lea Skene reported for the Associated Press.

The complaint, filed in federal court last week, targets 13 facilities in northeastern Maryland operated by Delaware-based W. L. Gore & Associates. It alleges the company polluted air and water with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), endangering nearby communities while profiting from its operations.

This lawsuit follows previous legal actions, including a 2023 class action filed on behalf of Cecil County residents seeking compensation for water filtration systems, medical costs, and damages caused by decades of pollution.

"PFAS are linked to cancer, weakened immune systems, and even infertility," Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown said. "It is unacceptable for any company to knowingly contaminate our drinking water with these toxins, putting Marylanders at risk of severe health conditions."

Philip Federico, an attorney representing plaintiffs in related lawsuits, criticized Gore's response to the contamination as inadequate.

"Residents continue to suffer. One of my clients was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer," he said. "This is typical corporate environmental contamination—they're in no rush to resolve the issue."