Congresswoman Houchin Tours Charlestown PFAS Treatment Facility

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Erin Houchin visited Charlestown last week to tour Indiana American Water's PFAS treatment facility and receive an update on efforts to improve water quality and address emerging contaminants.

Indiana American Water acquired the Charlestown water utility in March 2019 and built a new $16 million water treatment facility that came online in 2022. The company then added a nearly $6 million PFAS treatment system that went online in December 2025, making it the first public water system in Indiana to install PFAS treatment technology, according to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The facility serves approximately 8,000 residents and businesses.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals commonly used in industrial applications that do not break down in the environment and can accumulate over time. Federal regulators have recently taken steps to designate certain PFAS compounds as hazardous substances, raising important questions about cleanup responsibility and the need for clear, consistent policy.

"Access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for every community," said Rep. Houchin. "What we saw in Charlestown is a strong example of proactive investment to protect public health. For the first time in Indiana, a water utility has developed and implemented techniques to remove microplastics from our water. It is an encouraging development. As emerging contaminants continue to be discovered, it's critical that utilities have the clarity and support needed to continue making these investments."

"Charlestown represents the future of water quality and community investment," said Christine Keck, Vice President, Chief Legislative and External Affairs Officer. "We're proud to lead the way in PFAS treatment and infrastructure modernization, ensuring Hoosiers have access to safe, clean, reliable and affordable water."

"At Indiana American Water, caring for our customers' health and providing high-quality water is our top priority," said Barry Suits, President of Indiana American Water. "This PFAS treatment system in Charlestown continues the momentum we've established statewide and reflects our commitment to proactively address PFAS and contaminants of emerging concern in the communities we serve, and we appreciate Congresswoman Houchin's partnership and attention to the critical need for water infrastructure investment."

Rep. Houchin continues working with colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee to advance policies that protect water quality, provide regulatory certainty, and ensure a fair approach to addressing PFAS contamination.