Washington, DC – Following community concerns, the final wastewater discharge permit for chip-maker Analog Devices, published on March 23, 2026, includes the new addition of a PFAS Sampling and Analysis Plan. The company’s facility in Camas, Washington is now required to create a plan to determine whether the toxic “forever chemicals” are present in its wastewater discharge. The plan must include quarterly monitoring for two years and must identify wastewater from potential PFAS-containing operations or discharge conditions. If any PFAS compounds are detected above the quantitation level, Analog Devices must submit a source identification report to identify probable sources of PFAS and identify opportunities for source reduction or elimination.
The change came after CHIPS Communities United and seven other community-based organizations raised concerns over toxic PFAS releases allowed under a draft wastewater permit renewal for chip-maker Analog Devices. The draft permit included minimal monitoring and no limits on PFAS discharges, allowing the semiconductor manufacturer to release PFAS forever chemicals into the local sewage system without robust minimization or management requirements.
“We know there is no known safe level of these persistent chemicals,” said Julie MacNamara, the National Water Projects Coordinator for Clean Water Action. “Washington’s Department of Ecology has a responsibility to protect Washington communities from harmful PFAS pollution, and that includes PFAS discharges from the semiconductor industry.” Camas already has high levels of PFAS in its drinking water, and contamination of the Columbia River is an ongoing concern.
During the public comment period, the community groups called on the Department of Ecology to strengthen PFAS monitoring, treatment, and minimization requirements to reduce further contamination of the Columbia River and protect public health.
Under the Clean Water Act, industrial facilities are prohibited from sending any pollutant or wastewater to a Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) if the wastewater contains pollutants that will “pass through” the facility if inadequately treated prior to discharge into receiving water. Without PFAS-specific requirements, community groups argued, the City of Camas POTW may be held accountable for pass-through releases of toxic PFAS compounds.
“While the Washington State Department of Ecology did not include all the permit changes that are crucial to protect the Columbia River and stop future toxic effluent from the semiconductor industry,” said Judith Barish, Coalition Director of CHIPS Communities United, “it’s a step in the right direction. We’re looking forward to seeing more changes in the future.” # # #
