Pinehurst Today

U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) has sent a letter to U.S. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, urging immediate action to address substandard housing conditions within military barracks and other housing units. The letter highlights issues such as poor air and water quality, mold, and PFAS contamination.

Joining Rep. Hudson in this request are Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE), Dan Bishop (R-NC), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Brian Mast (R-FL), Greg Pence (R-IN), August Pfluger (R-TX), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), and Beth Van Duyne (R-TX).

The letter dated June 28, 2024, states: "As Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, we write to you today requesting swift action to address the current state of indoor environmental conditions in the Army's existing barracks and housing portfolio."

It further emphasizes that substandard living conditions pose significant health risks to military personnel and contribute to long-term chronic illnesses and growing liabilities. "These living environments have become a detriment to our recruiting and retention, as well as the readiness and resiliency of our warfighters," the letter notes.

The lawmakers reference a 2023 Government Accountability Office report that unveiled hazardous health conditions within military barracks, along with a recent Quality of Life report highlighting inadequate living conditions. They stress that basic living standards for service members must be free from toxins, chemicals, and other pollutants.

While acknowledging progress made by the Department of Defense in its Strategy for Resilient & Healthy Defense Communities, the representatives call for immediate solutions across existing barracks and housing units. They cite successful examples at Fort Meade and Fort Liberty where improvements met third-party indoor health certifications at lower costs compared to major renovations or new construction.

The letter urges the Army to adopt scalable, evidence-based approaches grounded in third-party testing against industry standards for indoor health. It also seeks answers on several points related to funding allocations for FY 2024 and FY 2025 aimed at addressing these concerns.

"We look forward to your timely response on this important matter," concludes the letter.

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