At Ferraro Law, we recognize the financial strain that PFAS contamination has placed on municipalities across the country. For decades, manufacturers of AFFF firefighting foam knew that the PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in their products could contaminate public drinking water sources—yet they failed to warn municipalities or implement safer alternatives. As a result, local governments now face billions of dollars in remediation costs to ensure clean drinking water for residents.
In response to mounting litigation, 3M and DuPont have agreed to a historic $13.5 billion settlement designed to assist municipalities in funding PFAS cleanup efforts. If your city, county, or water district has detected PFAS in its drinking water systems, you may be eligible to recover compensation to aid in drinking water remediation efforts. Ferraro Law has decades of experience in complex environmental litigation, and we are prepared to help your municipality navigate the settlement process, maximize funding, and hold polluters accountable for the contamination they caused.
Understanding AFFF Municipal Recovery
Understanding AFFF Municipal Recovery
Key Municipal Concerns
Drinking Water Contamination
Municipal water systems serve as the primary source of drinking water for millions of residents. PFAS contamination poses a serious public health risk, as these chemicals have been linked to life-threatening illnesses such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, immune disorders, and endocrine system disruptions. Communities now face an urgent need for large-scale testing and remediation to protect public safety.
Financial Burden on Local Governments
The cost of PFAS cleanup is staggering, with municipalities forced to spend millions on water treatment technologies, soil remediation, and infrastructure upgrades. These costs continue to rise as federal and state agencies tighten drinking water safety regulations, leaving many cities struggling to fund necessary improvements.
Regulatory Compliance Risks
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued drinking water advisories and proposed strict limits on PFAS levels in public water systems (PWS). Failure to meet these standards can lead to regulatory penalties and higher liability risks. Municipalities must act swiftly to address contamination, while ensuring compliance with evolving legal and environmental guidelines.
How AFFF Municipal Recovery Works
The $13.5 Billion 3M & DuPont Settlement
To assist local governments in addressing PFAS contamination, 3M and DuPont have agreed to a $13.5 billion settlement, providing financial relief to municipalities struggling with remediation costs. This settlement allows eligible entities to recover funds for:
Testing and Monitoring
Municipalities must conduct extensive water testing to identify contamination levels and comply with federal and state reporting requirements. The settlement provides funding to support ongoing monitoring efforts.
Filtration System Upgrades
Installing advanced filtration systems such as activated carbon treatment and reverse osmosis is essential for removing PFAS from drinking water. The settlement helps cover the cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining these systems.
Reimbursement for Past Cleanup Costs
Cities and counties that have already invested in PFAS mitigation efforts may recover a portion of their expenses, reducing the financial burden on local budgets.
How Ferraro Law Helps Municipalities
Navigating the legal requirements of the settlement can be complex. Our attorneys work closely with local governments to:
Assess Your Eligibility
We conduct a comprehensive review of your public water system’s contamination levels, past remediation efforts, flow rates, and projected cleanup costs to determine your eligibility for settlement funds.
Meet Legal Deadlines and Compliance Requirements
Missing deadlines or failing to provide required documentation can jeopardize your municipality’s ability to recover settlement funds. Our legal team ensures accurate and timely submission of all paperwork.
Explore Additional Legal Remedies
If your cleanup costs exceed the available settlement funds, we can pursue further litigation against responsible manufacturers to recover additional compensation.
40 Years of Fierce Representation
40 Years of fierce Representation
Since 1985, Ferraro Law has fought to hold major corporations accountable for environmental contamination, toxic exposure, and public health crises. With decades of experience in environmental litigation, our firm has effectively represented municipalities and organizations in complex cases, achieving significant settlements and verdicts against some of the world’s largest corporations. We have taken on chemical manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and industrial giants, achieving billions in recoveries for those harmed by corporate negligence. Beyond litigation, Ferraro Law remains committed to public health and environmental justice, advocating for stronger regulations, safer environmental policies, and long-term solutions to protect communities from hazardous chemicals.
How We Can Help You
How We Can Help You
Assessment & Consultation
We start with a comprehensive evaluation of your municipality’s PFAS exposure levels, historical water testing data, and associated cleanup costs to determine eligibility for available funding. Our team carefully reviews the extent of contamination and regulatory requirements to develop a clear legal path forward.
Tailored Legal Strategies
Every municipal claim is unique, requiring a customized approach. We conduct a detailed analysis of your water contamination sources, existing remediation efforts, and financial losses to build the strongest possible case. By addressing the specific challenges your municipality faces, we work to maximize your potential recovery.
Ongoing Legal & Regulatory Guidance
Our attorneys provide continuous legal support and strategic counsel, ensuring your municipality meets all settlement deadlines, reporting obligations, and compliance requirements under evolving PFAS regulations. We stay ahead of legal and environmental developments so you can focus on protecting public health while securing the financial relief you deserve.
What We Handle
What We Handle
Ferraro Law represents municipalities, counties, and public water systems in:
Filing Claims under AFFF Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)
We help your city or water district properly submit a claim and receive the compensation it deserves.
Recovering Past Remediation Costs
If your municipality has already spent funds on PFAS mitigation, we work to get that money reimbursed.
Ensuring Compliance with Evolving Federal and State PFAS Standards
As regulations evolve, we provide legal guidance to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Exploring Additional Litigation Options
If settlement funds are insufficient, we investigate legal claims against manufacturers to recover additional damages.
Deciding Whether to Pursue an AFFF Municipal Lawsuit
Deciding Whether to Pursue an AFFF Municipal Lawsuit
Municipalities are on the front lines of the PFAS crisis, responsible for providing safe drinking water while facing mounting financial and regulatory pressures. The costs associated with monitoring, treating, and remediating PFAS contamination are significant, and without legal action, many local governments are forced to pass these expenses on to taxpayers. Filing a claim against the manufacturers responsible for PFAS pollution places the burden of cleanup on those who caused the contamination—not on the communities suffering its effects.
Compensation for Municipalities Affected by PFAS
Compensation for Municipalities Affected by PFAS
The $13.5 billion 3M and DuPont settlement provides an opportunity for municipalities to recover the costs associated with PFAS testing, remediation, and treatment infrastructure upgrades.
Potential compensation may include:
Funding for Water Testing and Monitoring Programs
Municipalities must regularly test for PFAS contamination to track levels in public drinking water sources and comply with EPA and state regulations.
Upgrades to Water Treatment Facilities
Removing PFAS from municipal water supplies requires expensive filtration and purification technologies. Without financial assistance, many cities struggle to afford these upgrades.
Infrastructure Overhauls for Long-Term Compliance
Beyond treatment facilities, municipalities may need significant infrastructure upgrades to prevent PFAS exposure through distribution systems.
Legal Costs Associated with PFAS-Related Litigation:
Many local governments hesitate to pursue litigation due to concerns about legal expenses. However, municipalities that take legal action can often recover attorney fees, expert witness costs, and administrative expenses associated with their PFAS-related lawsuits. By working with Ferraro Law on a contingency basis, municipalities can pursue litigation without taking on financial risk.
Why Taking Action Now is Critical
Municipalities face strict deadlines to file claims under the $13.5 billion PFAS settlement. Those who fail to act may miss out on vital compensation, forcing them to rely on limited taxpayer funding for costly remediation efforts. Additionally, many experts believe that future cleanup costs could exceed current estimates, making legal action the best path toward long-term financial security.
What to Look for in a Municipal AFFF Lawyer
What to Look for in a Municipal AFFF Lawyer
Selecting the right law firm to handle your municipality’s AFFF litigation and PFAS contamination claims is a critical decision. The financial future of your public water system, compliance with evolving environmental regulations, and the ability to hold polluters accountable depend on working with experienced legal counsel. As you evaluate potential attorneys, consider the following:
Experience in Large-Scale Environmental Litigation & Municipal Claims
PFAS contamination lawsuits involve complex environmental regulations, scientific evidence, and large-scale corporate defendants. Choose a law firm with a proven track record in toxic exposure cases, mass torts, and government entity litigation. Firms experienced in handling claims against major polluters—such as chemical manufacturers and industrial corporations—are best positioned to navigate federal and state environmental laws, municipal infrastructure challenges, and class-action or multidistrict litigation proceedings.
Clear Communication & Responsive Legal Support
Municipalities must juggle budget constraints, regulatory obligations, and public health concerns when dealing with PFAS contamination. Your legal team should provide transparent, timely updates throughout the case, ensuring that city officials and public works departments fully understand the legal process. Select a law firm that values direct, straightforward communication, explains settlement terms in clear language, and provides ongoing legal guidance to help municipalities stay compliant with environmental laws.
Strong Investigative & Scientific Resources
PFAS litigation is built on scientific data, water testing results, and environmental impact studies. A successful municipal AFFF claim requires attorneys with deep connections to environmental scientists, water quality experts, and regulatory specialists who can provide expert testimony and substantiate contamination claims. Look for a firm that has access to industry-leading experts in environmental engineering, toxicology, and municipal water system infrastructure to help strengthen your case.
Proven Success in Holding Polluters Accountable
When taking legal action against corporations like 3M, DuPont, and other chemical manufacturers, it is crucial to work with a law firm that has successfully litigated against large corporate defendants, negotiated high-value settlements, and secured financial relief for government entities. Look for documented case results in environmental contamination lawsuits, public health litigation, and other mass tort actions against industrial polluters.
What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
Partnering with Ferraro Law means having a dedicated legal team that understands the financial and regulatory challenges municipalities face when dealing with PFAS contamination. We provide strategic legal representation, clear communication, and aggressive advocacy to help your city, county, or water district secure the maximum financial recovery for remediation efforts.
Each municipality’s contamination challenges are unique. Whether your public water system requires large-scale filtration upgrades, your community is dealing with historic PFAS contamination from nearby military or industrial sites, or you are seeking reimbursement for past cleanup costs, we develop tailored legal strategies to reflect your city’s specific needs. Our goal is to recover the compensation necessary to ensure safe, compliant drinking water without forcing taxpayers to bear the burden.
With decades of experience in toxic exposure, environmental contamination, and large-scale litigation against corporate polluters, Ferraro Law brings a deep understanding of the legal, scientific, and regulatory complexities of PFAS litigation. We stay ahead of evolving EPA standards, state-level PFAS drinking water regulations, and settlement deadlines to make sure your municipality receives the funding it needs while maintaining compliance with environmental laws.
Municipalities navigating the $13.5 billion 3M & DuPont settlement need legal counsel that can analyze whether the available funds adequately cover their cleanup expenses. We evaluate each claim to determine whether a settlement fully compensates your city’s financial losses or if additional legal action is necessary. If the settlement does not provide a fair recovery, we are prepared to pursue further litigation to hold polluters accountable and recover additional damages.
Many municipalities hesitate to pursue litigation due to concerns about legal expenses, but Ferraro Law operates on a contingency fee basis. This means your city, county, or water district pays nothing upfront—we only collect legal fees if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This structure ensures that every municipality, regardless of budget constraints, has access to top-tier legal representation without additional financial strain.
PFAS litigation is complex, with evolving regulations, funding opportunities, and scientific developments shaping the legal landscape. Ferraro Law provides ongoing support, offering regular case updates, clear communication, and detailed legal analysis to help municipalities navigate contamination claims. We also assist with regulatory compliance, settlement fund allocation, and infrastructure planning, ensuring long-term solutions for affected communities.
Although headquartered in Florida, Ferraro Law handles municipal PFAS litigation nationwide. We represent cities, counties, and water districts across the country, combining the resources of a large-scale litigation firm with a hands-on, client-focused approach.
Client Experiences
Our experience and commitment to environmental justice make us one of the top law firms handling municipal AFFF lawsuits. We never want your city to feel lost in a massive bureaucracy—our priority is fighting for the financial relief you need to protect public water systems and provide clean, safe drinking water to your community.
Client Experiences
Municipalities nationwide turn to Ferraro Law to pursue relief from the financial burden of PFAS contamination. Our clients commend our thorough investigations, strategic litigation, and commitment to holding polluters accountable.
From linking contamination sources to AFFF use, to navigating complex settlement negotiations, we ensure local governments receive the maximum compensation needed for cleanup, compliance, and long-term water safety.
“You not only told us it was going to be okay, you showed us that it’s going to be okay.”
SUZANNE
ASBESTOS & MESOTHELIOMA
Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the entire law firm for their outstanding professionalism, care, and compassion during a very difficult time. From beginning to end, their team handled everything with sensitivity and a level of excellence that truly stood out. A special and heartfelt shoutout to Daniel J. Di Matteo your professionalism, calm presence, and dedication did not go unnoticed. You handled everything with grace and integrity, and we are beyond thankful for your support. We would absolutely recommend you to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation. Thank you again for everything. Sincerely, The Goldies
Erica Goldie
The lawyers at The Ferraro Law Firm in Miami provide a first class client experience. Every single attorney is smart and committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for their clients. They work hard and they fight hard. I highly recommend this Miami law firm.
Natasha Diemer
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value: Thank the Ferraro law firm, Attorney José Luis Becerra and his assistants for their help to my wife Viviana Bowles. Solving legal claims for lung cancer (Mesothelioma) caused by exposure to asbestos, with excellent results.
Erwin Jose Alpire Sanchez
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value: From the first meeting we had at Ferraro Law with the lawyer Jose Luis Becerra, myself and my husband, we were treated with great kindness, efficiency and disposition and he clarified our doubts regarding my rights. I was consulted for lung cancer (Mesothelioma) caused by exposure to asbestos. The advice was successful, achieving positive results in the corresponding claims. We are satisfied with the treatment and results obtained. Special thanks to attorney Jose Luis Becerra and the Ferraro Law firm.
Viviana Bowles
The Steps Your Municipal AFFF Attorney Will Take
The Steps Your Municipal AFFF Attorney Will Take
Once you decide to partner with Ferraro Law for your municipality’s AFFF lawsuit, our attorneys will guide you through a clear, structured process to ensure maximum financial recovery for PFAS remediation.
1
Initial Consultation & Case Review
We evaluate your municipality’s water testing data, past remediation efforts, and projected cleanup costs to determine your eligibility for settlement funds or litigation.
2
Investigation & Evidence Gathering
Our legal team works with environmental scientists, water quality experts, and municipal officials to build a strong case. We gather PFAS contamination reports, regulatory compliance records, and financial documentation to quantify your city’s losses.
3
Claim Preparation & Filing
After compiling the necessary evidence, we file claims under the 3M & DuPont settlement or pursue litigation against responsible manufacturers. Our attorneys ensure that your municipality’s full financial burden—past, present, and future—is accurately represented.
4
Negotiation & Settlement Discussions
If settlement funds are available, we negotiate to maximize compensation for your municipality’s testing, treatment, and infrastructure upgrades. If initial offers fall short, we continue pursuing additional legal action.
5
Trial Preparation (If Needed)
Should settlement negotiations fail, we prepare to take your case to court. Our legal team presents scientific evidence, regulatory violations, and financial damages to demonstrate how PFAS manufacturers contributed to the contamination of your municipality’s water supply.
6
Ongoing Support & Compliance Guidance
Even after a settlement or verdict, Ferraro Law remains a trusted resource for municipalities. We provide ongoing regulatory guidance, support for fund allocation, and assistance with future PFAS-related legal challenges.
Meet Your AFFF Litigation Attorneys
Meet Your AFFF Litigation Attorneys
Learn More About Our Team
At Ferraro Law, our attorneys bring decades of experience in environmental litigation, municipal advocacy, and mass tort cases, representing municipalities impacted by corporate negligence. We take a strategic, collaborative approach to holding corporations accountable for PFAS contamination, guiding local governments through the legal process and advocating for the financial resources necessary to support cleanup efforts, regulatory compliance, and long-term public health protections.
James L. Ferraro Jr.
James handles high-stakes injury and environmental cases, focusing on toxic torts, product liability, and public impact litigation. He leads the firm’s national MDL work and has helped recover tens of millions of dollars for cities, families, and individuals harmed by corporate negligence.
James L. Ferraro Sr.
For over 40 years, Jim has led high-impact cases against major corporations in asbestos, environmental, and injury litigation—securing billions of dollars and meaningful outcomes for people facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
Natalia M. Salas
Natalia handles complex, high-stakes litigation across mass torts, MDLs, and commercial disputes. She plays a national leadership role in major cases—from insulin pricing to PFAS contamination—and is known for her sharp strategy, courtroom strength, and deep commitment to client advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How did PFAS chemicals end up in municipal drinking water?
For decades, AFFF firefighting foam containing PFAS was used at military bases, airports, fire training sites, and industrial facilities. The chemicals in AFFF do not break down naturally, seeping into groundwater and contaminating public water systems. Many municipalities are now discovering widespread PFAS contamination in their drinking water supplies due to years of unregulated chemical use.
02.
Who is responsible for the cost of PFAS remediation?
Chemical manufacturers, not municipalities, should bear the financial burden of PFAS cleanup. Companies like 3M and DuPont profited from selling AFFF despite knowing the risks associated with its PFAS content. Municipalities now facing cleanup costs can pursue legal action to hold these corporations accountable and recover compensation for water treatment and remediation efforts.
03.
What are the health risks associated with PFAS exposure?
PFAS exposure creates significant challenges for municipal public water systems. The contamination drives up the costs of water testing, treatment, and remediation, placing an additional financial and regulatory burden on local governments as they strive to secure safe drinking water.
04.
How can my municipality qualify for settlement funds?
If your city, county, or public water system has detected PFAS contamination in drinking water sources, you may be eligible for compensation under the $13.5 billion 3M & DuPont settlement or through separate litigation against other chemical manufacturers. Ferraro Law will assess your case and determine the best legal pathway to secure the funds your community needs.
05.
Can Ferraro Law represent municipalities outside of Florida?
Yes. Ferraro Law represents municipalities and public water systems nationwide in AFFF litigation and PFAS-related legal claims. Our firm has extensive experience handling large-scale environmental contamination lawsuits across the country.
have more questions?
glossary of key terms
Glossary of Key Terms
AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam)
A specialized firefighting foam widely used to suppress fuel-based fires. While effective, AFFF contains PFAS chemicals that persist in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of groundwater and municipal water systems.
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
A group of synthetic chemicals known for their water-resistant and heat-resistant properties. Often called “forever chemicals,” PFAS compounds do not naturally break down and have been linked to cancer, immune dysfunction, and reproductive health issues.
Public Water System (PWS)
A municipal or government-managed water supply that provides drinking water to residents, businesses, and institutions. Many PWS facilities are now implementing advanced filtration and treatment processes to comply with new PFAS safety standards.
EPA PFAS Regulations
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued drinking water advisories and proposed strict new limits on acceptable PFAS levels in public water supplies. These regulations are driving municipalities to invest in expensive water treatment and compliance efforts.
PFAS Litigation & Settlements
A series of lawsuits against AFFF manufacturers and chemical companies seeking financial compensation for municipalities dealing with PFAS contamination. The $13.5 billion settlement with 3M and DuPont is one of the largest legal actions taken to fund water treatment and remediation projects nationwide.
Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The expenses associated with removing PFAS from drinking water, cleaning up contaminated sites, and upgrading water treatment infrastructure. Many municipalities are now seeking legal compensation to offset these significant financial burdens.
PFAS chemicals from firefighting foam, industrial sites, and military bases have seeped into underground water sources, affecting municipal water wells and public reservoirs. Cleaning up groundwater contamination is a long-term, resource-intensive process requiring advanced treatment technologies.
What's Next?
what’s next?
If your municipality is facing challenges related to PFAS contamination, expensive water treatment upgrades, or compliance with evolving EPA regulations, Ferraro Law is prepared to assist. Our legal team navigates the complexities of PFAS litigation, advocating for local governments burdened by pollution caused by chemical manufacturers. We are committed to holding these corporations accountable so that the financial responsibility for cleanup and long-term water safety does not fall on taxpayers. Let us help you explore your legal options and pursue the resources needed to protect your community’s drinking water.
attorney referral program
attorney referral program
Ferraro Law is nationally renowned for achieving significant settlements in complex personal injury cases. Firms across the country refer clients to Ferraro Law, recognizing our commitment to exceptional service, groundbreaking results, and readiness to tackle cases others find too risky or costly.
