Why it Matters

Culligan’s entry into federal lobbying marks a significant strategic shift for the water treatment company. This signals Culligan North America’s recognition of PFAS regulation as a business-critical issue. The move comes as Congress actively debates legislation and allocates funding to address "forever chemicals" contamination.

By the Numbers

Culligan filed its new client registration on September 15, 2025, with no previous federal lobbying history. The company retained Smith Garson to focus on Defense and Environmental/Superfund policy areas.

  • Kirsten M. Pratt: 21+ years congressional experience, former Chief of Staff
  • Brett Garson: Veteran lobbyist with direct PFAS experience
  • Kristian C. Chin: Former House Legislative Assistant with PFAS remediation experience

Broader Context

PFAS contamination has emerged as a major public health crisis. EPA recently established drinking water standards of 4 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS. Military bases represent significant contamination sources, creating federally-funded cleanup markets. The bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force was relaunched for the 119th Congress, demonstrating sustained political attention.

The Agenda

Culligan is lobbying on PFAS mitigation and remediation across Defense and Environmental policy areas. The company’s water treatment expertise aligns with federal cleanup efforts and new regulatory standards. Smith Garson brings relevant experience, having lobbied on PFAS issues for the City of Dayton, Ohio and San Francisco International Airport PFAS remediation.

Competitive Landscape

Multiple water treatment companies are active on PFAS lobbying. USALCO LLC lobbies on “Environmental water treatment technology to address PFAS.” Nalco Water discusses “PFAS remediation technology.” Engineering firms like Black & Veatch Corp. focus on liability protection measures. Municipalities including Dublin, Ohio and Fayetteville, NC seek federal PFAS funding.

Between The Lines

Congress is actively legislating on PFAS. The H.R.1267 – Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act would shield water systems from certain liabilities. The H.R.4168 – PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act of 2025 would codify EPA standards. Military-focused bills like H.R.4192 – Military PFAS Transparency Act of 2025 address base contamination. Rep Brian Fitzpatrick noted his PFAS Coordinator legislation represents the strongest federal action yet to address this public health crisis.

Recent hearings with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin covered PFAS strategy before the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Senate EPW Committee. House Appropriations markups continue funding water infrastructure projects despite budget pressures.

The Bottom Line

. The experienced Smith Garson team provides strategic access during peak congressional activity. With bipartisan support for PFAS action and significant funding streams available, the timing appears favorable for water treatment companies.

All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!

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