Randolph Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit [2025 Update]

PFAS Chemicals at Dangerous Levels in Randolph AFB Groundwater

Randolph Air Force Base (AFB), part of Joint Base San Antonio in Texas, has been identified as a significant site of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.

Groundwater testing at the base revealed dangerously high concentrations of PFAS chemicals, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) levels reaching 120,000 parts per trillion (ppt), far exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2024 drinking water standard of 4 ppt.

The widespread contamination has raised serious concerns about the safety of drinking water in and around the base.

Prolonged exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to serious health effects, leading to growing demands for remediation and legal action.

The military, environmental agencies, and advocacy groups are working to assess the full extent of contamination and develop solutions to mitigate ongoing exposure risks.

Sources of PFAS Contamination in Randolph AFB

The primary source of PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB is the historical use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in firefighting training and emergency response operations.

AFFF, which contains high levels of PFAS chemicals, was widely used for decades to suppress jet fuel fires, leading to repeated releases of these hazardous substances into the environment.

Toxic chemicals have seeped into the soil and groundwater, posing a long-term contamination threat.

In addition to AFFF use, industrial solvents, hazardous waste disposal, and other military operations at Randolph AFB may have contributed to PFAS pollution.

The Department of Defense (DoD) and other agencies continue to investigate the full scope of contamination to determine the necessary remediation measures.

PFAS Levels Detected at Randolph AFB

Testing at Randolph AFB has revealed alarmingly high PFAS concentrations in groundwater, far exceeding federal safety standards.

PFOS levels were measured at 120,000 ppt—30,000 times higher than the EPA’s recommended limit.

Combined PFOS and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) levels reached 182,000 ppt, raising concerns about the safety of local drinking water.

The contamination has also impacted private drinking water wells near the base, increasing exposure risks for local residents.

Levels indicate a long-term pollution problem that requires immediate attention.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has classified Randolph AFB as a high-risk site, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive cleanup efforts and stronger regulatory oversight.

Health Risks Linked to PFAS Contamination

Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been associated with a wide range of serious health risks.

Scientific studies and federal health agencies have linked PFAS exposure to kidney cancer, liver disease, thyroid dysfunction, and immune system suppression.

Long-term ingestion of PFAS-contaminated drinking water has been shown to disrupt hormone regulation, leading to developmental issues in infants and reproductive harm in adults.

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has reported that PFAS chemicals can accumulate in human blood, leading to chronic toxicity over time.

Firefighters, military personnel, and nearby residents face increased risks due to prolonged occupational and environmental exposure to PFAS-containing products.

As these chemicals persist in the body, the long-term health effects continue to be a major concern for affected communities.

Impacted Populations at Randolph AFB

The PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB has affected multiple populations, particularly those who rely on local drinking water sources.

The groups facing the highest exposure risks include:

• Military Service Members and Their Families – Individuals stationed at Randolph AFB may have unknowingly consumed contaminated water for extended periods.
• Civilian Employees – Workers at the base, including maintenance personnel, may have been exposed to PFAS chemicals through occupational activities.
• Local Communities – Residents living near the base, particularly those who rely on private drinking water wells, are at risk of prolonged PFAS exposure.
• Veterans Previously Stationed at Randolph AFB – Former military personnel who spent years at the base may now suffer from PFAS-related health conditions, including thyroid disease and various cancers.

These populations face increased health risks due to the persistent nature of PFAS chemicals in groundwater and the body.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) recommend clinical follow-ups for individuals with prolonged PFAS exposure to monitor for potential health complications.

Addressing PFAS Contamination at Randolph AFB

Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB are underway, with the Department of Defense (DoD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and local agencies working to mitigate exposure risks.

The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) has implemented comprehensive water testing programs to determine the full extent of contamination.

Key remediation efforts include:

• Providing Alternative Drinking Water Supplies – Residents with high PFAS exposure have received bottled water and filtration systems to reduce exposure risks.
• Installing Point-of-Use Treatment Systems – Advanced reverse osmosis filtration technology is being deployed in affected households to remove PFAS from water.
• Groundwater Cleanup Initiatives – The Air Force is investing in long-term remediation strategies, including activated carbon filtration and soil excavation, to reduce contamination levels.
• Regulatory Compliance Efforts – The Air Force is aligning its cleanup measures with new federal PFAS regulations, including the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for drinking water.

Despite these initiatives, the cleanup process at Randolph AFB remains a complex and ongoing challenge due to the persistence of PFAS chemicals in the environment.

Continued pressure from environmental organizations and affected communities is essential to ensure that contamination is effectively addressed.

Broader Implications of PFAS Contamination

The PFAS crisis at Randolph AFB highlights a widespread issue affecting military bases across the country.

Decades of firefighting foam use, industrial activities, and waste disposal practices have led to severe PFAS contamination at numerous military installations.

This growing environmental concern has several major implications, including:

• Increased Accountability for PFAS Manufacturers – Companies that produced and distributed PFAS-containing products, including firefighting foams, may face legal consequences for their role in widespread contamination.
• Health and Safety Concerns for Military Families – The Department of Defense faces mounting pressure to ensure the health and safety of service members, veterans, and their families affected by PFAS exposure.
• Regulatory Changes and Water Protection Policies – The EPA and Congress are implementing stricter PFAS regulations, including mandates under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to limit PFAS exposure at military sites.
• Ongoing Legal Action – PFAS litigation continues to expand, with lawsuits targeting polluters, the military, and government agencies responsible for PFAS contamination. These lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, environmental cleanup, and damages for those affected.
• The Future of PFAS Remediation – New remediation technologies and stricter pollution controls will play a critical role in reducing PFAS concentrations in drinking water and groundwater at military bases nationwide.

The situation at Randolph AFB serves as a critical example of why urgent action is needed to combat PFAS contamination at military installations.

Ensuring public health, environmental safety, and accountability from responsible parties remains a top priority for affected communities and environmental advocates.

What Are PFAS Chemicals and Why Are They Dangerous?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in industrial, military, and consumer applications since the 1940s.

These chemicals are valued for their resistance to heat, water, and grease, making them essential components in firefighting foams, nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, and industrial solvents.

At military installations like Randolph Air Force Base (AFB), Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) containing PFAS was extensively used in firefighting training and jet fuel fire suppression, leading to long-term contamination of groundwater and drinking water sources.

One of the most concerning aspects of PFAS is that they do not break down naturally, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

Once released into the environment, they persist in water, soil, and human blood, leading to widespread exposure risks.

These chemicals have been detected in private drinking water wells, public water systems, and even the bloodstream of individuals in affected communities.

As scientific research and previous studies continue to highlight the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, growing concerns have led to legal action, stricter regulations, and increased remediation efforts to address their dangers.

Why Are PFAS Considered Dangerous

PFAS chemicals are considered dangerous due to their bioaccumulative nature, toxic effects, and long-term presence in the human body and environment.

These chemicals can persist for decades, continuously contaminating water supplies and increasing human exposure.

Once ingested or absorbed, PFAS accumulate in the liver, kidneys, and immune system, disrupting essential biological functions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) have linked exposure to PFAS-contaminated water to a variety of serious health risks, including:

• Increased Cancer Risk – Studies have found strong links between PFAS exposure and kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and breast cancer.
• Thyroid Disease and Hormonal Disruptions – PFAS interfere with the body’s endocrine system, leading to thyroid disorders, metabolic issues, and reproductive harm.
• Immune System Suppression – Research has shown that PFAS can weaken the immune system, reducing vaccine effectiveness and increasing vulnerability to infections.
• Liver and Kidney Damage – High levels of PFAS have been associated with elevated cholesterol, liver dysfunction, and kidney disease.
• Developmental and Reproductive Issues – Pregnant women exposed to PFAS face an increased risk of pregnancy complications, low birth weight, and delayed developmental milestones in infants.

PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB and other military bases has put thousands of service members, their families, and nearby residents at risk.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have conducted extensive PFAS testing, confirming high PFAS concentrations in local water systems.

Despite growing awareness, many individuals remain unaware of their exposure, underscoring the need for clinical follow-ups and long-term health monitoring.

Environmental Impact of PFAS

The environmental consequences of PFAS contamination extend far beyond human health concerns.

Once released into the water supply, these toxic substances contaminate groundwater, rivers, lakes, and soil, creating long-term pollution problems that traditional water treatment processes cannot easily remove.

Some of the most severe environmental impacts of PFAS include:

• Groundwater and Surface Water Contamination – PFAS have been detected in water supplies across the U.S., particularly near military sites, industrial facilities, and waste disposal areas.
• Wildlife and Ecosystem Disruption – PFAS bioaccumulate in fish, birds, and other animals, leading to toxicity in the food chain and threatening biodiversity.
• Agricultural Contamination – In areas where PFAS-contaminated water has been used for irrigation, livestock and crops may absorb these chemicals, creating potential dietary exposure risks for consumers.
• Difficult and Costly Cleanup Efforts – Unlike many other hazardous substances, PFAS do not naturally degrade, requiring expensive and complex remediation technologies such as reverse osmosis filtration, activated carbon treatments, and soil excavation.

The Need For Urgent Action

The widespread use and persistence of PFAS chemicals highlight the urgent need for action to protect public health, regulate contamination, and hold responsible parties accountable.

Several critical measures must be taken to address the PFAS crisis, including:

1. Stronger Federal and State Regulations – The EPA has set new Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFAS in drinking water, but more research is needed to establish stricter limits and prevent future contamination.
2. Advanced Water Treatment Solutions – The implementation of point-of-use filtration systems and reverse osmosis technology is necessary to remove PFAS from contaminated water supplies.
3. Legal Action Against PFAS Manufacturers and Military Polluters – Lawsuits targeting chemical companies, the Department of Defense (DoD), and PFAS manufacturers seek to secure financial compensation for affected communities and ensure that polluters take responsibility for environmental damages.
4. Public Awareness and Health Monitoring – Raising awareness about PFAS exposure risks and providing health screenings for impacted populations are essential steps to detect and manage PFAS-related health issues.
5. Investment in Alternative Firefighting Foams and Consumer Products – The military and private sector must develop safer alternatives to AFFF and other PFAS-containing products to reduce future contamination risks.

The PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB is part of a larger national crisis affecting military bases, industrial sites, and public water systems across the country.

Immediate action is required to reduce PFAS levels, remediate contaminated sites, and protect future generations from exposure to these toxic chemicals.

The legal efforts, environmental advocacy, and scientific research surrounding PFAS pollution will play a crucial role in shaping future policies and ensuring accountability for widespread contamination.

An Overview of The PFAS Litigation

PFAS litigation has become a critical legal battleground as more communities, military personnel, and environmental organizations seek justice for PFAS contamination in drinking water and groundwater.

Legal action has primarily focused on holding chemical manufacturers, military agencies, and industrial polluters accountable for the widespread health and environmental damage caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

These lawsuits argue that responsible parties failed to warn the public about the dangers of forever chemicals, despite growing scientific evidence linking PFAS exposure to cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disorders, and reproductive harm.

PFAS litigation includes class action lawsuits, individual claims, and municipal lawsuits filed against major chemical companies and government agencies.

Many cases involve military installations like Randolph Air Force Base, where Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) was used extensively, leading to significant water contamination.

Legal efforts have led to multi-billion-dollar settlements, regulatory changes, and increased remediation efforts to address PFAS pollution.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state governments have also taken legal and regulatory action to enforce stricter PFAS testing, cleanup requirements, and maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for drinking water.

As litigation progresses, more individuals and communities affected by PFAS exposure are stepping forward to seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and long-term health monitoring.

Key Defendants in PFAS Lawsuits

The primary defendants in PFAS lawsuits include major chemical manufacturers, government agencies, and industries responsible for the production, distribution, and use of PFAS-containing products.

These entities have been accused of knowingly polluting the environment and failing to warn the public about the serious health risks associated with PFAS exposure.

Notable defendants in PFAS litigation include:

• 3M Company – One of the largest producers of PFAS chemicals, 3M has faced thousands of lawsuits related to firefighting foam contamination and industrial PFAS pollution. In 2023, 3M agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement to resolve claims related to PFAS-contaminated public water systems.
• DuPont and Chemours – These companies have been central to PFAS manufacturing, producing Teflon coatings, firefighting foams, and industrial solvents containing toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2023, DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva reached a $1.19 billion settlement to help address PFAS water contamination claims.
• Tyco Fire Products and Kidde-Fenwal – These companies, known for manufacturing AFFF firefighting foams, have been sued for contributing to widespread water contamination at military bases, airports, and training sites.
• Industrial and Consumer Product Manufacturers – Companies involved in the production of nonstick cookware, food packaging, water-resistant textiles, and industrial coatings have also been named in lawsuits, particularly in cases where PFAS contamination has spread into public drinking water systems.

These defendants face allegations of negligence, failure to warn, and environmental destruction, with plaintiffs seeking compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and long-term health risks.

Do You Qualify for a Randolph Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one were stationed, lived, or worked near Randolph Air Force Base (AFB) and were exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water, you may qualify for legal action.

PFAS contamination at Randolph AFB has been linked to firefighting foam (AFFF) used in training exercises, leading to high levels of toxic substances in groundwater and drinking water supplies.

Veterans, military personnel, civilian employees, and local residents who have experienced health problems due to PFAS exposure should consider filing a claim.

Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering related to PFAS contamination.

Contact an experienced PFAS attorney for a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility for a lawsuit.

Gathering Evidence for a PFAS Claim

Building a strong PFAS lawsuit requires substantial evidence to prove exposure, contamination levels, and health consequences.

To successfully file a claim, plaintiffs should gather the following key documentation:

• Water Testing Results – If available, records showing PFAS detected in private drinking water wells, public water systems, or groundwater near Randolph AFB can help establish exposure to contamination.
• Medical Records – Documentation of PFAS-related health conditions, including cancer diagnoses, thyroid disorders, immune system issues, or other illnesses, strengthens the connection between exposure and adverse health effects.
• Residency or Employment Records – Proof that you lived, worked, or were stationed near Randolph AFB during known periods of PFAS contamination can support your case.
• Environmental Studies & Reports – Research, EPA reports, and Environmental Working Group (EWG) findings detailing PFAS contamination levels at Randolph AFB may serve as crucial evidence.
• Expert Testimony – Medical professionals, toxicologists, and environmental scientists may be consulted to provide expert opinions on the health risks of PFAS exposure and the impact on affected individuals.

If you suspect you were exposed to hazardous PFAS chemicals at Randolph AFB, it is important to act quickly.

An experienced PFAS attorney can help gather the necessary evidence, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation and to learn more about your legal options.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating PFAS Lawsuits at Randolph Air Force Base

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating PFAS contamination at Randolph Air Force Base (AFB) and its harmful impact on military personnel, veterans, civilian employees, and nearby residents.

The use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) for firefighting training and emergency responses has led to high levels of PFAS chemicals in groundwater and drinking water supplies, putting individuals at risk for serious health conditions such as cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders.

As PFAS litigation continues to expand, our firm is committed to holding the Department of Defense (DoD), PFAS manufacturers, and other responsible entities accountable for the damage caused by these toxic chemicals.

Our legal team is dedicated to helping affected individuals pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term health monitoring.

If you or a loved one have suffered health issues due to PFAS contamination in drinking water at Randolph Air Force Base, you may be eligible for legal action.

Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about your rights and options.

You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation at no cost.