Every day, as more research emerges about the harmful effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the urgency to act grows stronger. Known as "forever chemicals," PFAS linger in our water, soil, and even our bloodstreams as they do not break down in nature or the human body. Their persistence is linked to devastating health outcomes including cancer, liver damage, immune system dysfunction, neurological impairment, and developmental delays in children. In Hastings-on-Hudson, as a community deeply connected to our environment, ensuring the safety of our public spaces—including our sports fields—is critical.

We are heartened that our school district committed to purchasing a turf field that is "free of lead and PFAS", and as such, the synthetic turf used on our fields must be certified PFA-free. However, the current safeguard proposed by the district at its 2/10/26 meeting is not sufficient. The current plan requires only a letter from the vendor attesting there are no PFAS or lead (called a "manufacturer certified letter" ). This is neither sufficient nor reliable and presents a potential conflict of interest. As other communities have, we ask that Hastings conduct third party, independent and appropriate testing for PFAs before installation and ideally before the award of any contract for turf so that we can guarantee that the turf product we purchase meets the PFA-free requirement that the Board of Education approved and that our community voted for. In particular, any RFP awarded should be contingent on independent (not manufacturer) certification stating that the synthetic turf is PFAS and lead free. 

This is a matter of public health. With children and athletes regularly using these fields, we have a responsibility to guarantee their safety. 

To achieve this, we propose the following steps:

1. **Mandating Testing**: Require that all synthetic turf products used in Hastings on Hudson undergo rigorous PFAS testing BEFORE procurement and installation using the guidelines specified here: https://www.testtheturf.org/turf-system-toxics.html This mandate will ensure compliance from producers and transparency with residents.

2. **Community Transparency**: Publicly communicate the results and testing facility. 

By taking these actions, Hastings-on-Hudson can maintain our fields as safe havens free from the impacts of PFAS, and provide a model for other communities to do their own due diligence. Please sign this petition to demand reliable, accurate testing for PFAS in synthetic turf, and help safeguard the health of our community for generations to come.

Thank you for supporting,