Consumer advocate Erin Brockovich is set to return to Northwest Georgia next week as the PFAS Georgia team announces a major expansion of water, soil, and dust testing in Rome and several surrounding counties. Organizers say the renewed push comes after more than 20 months of work in the region uncovered some of the highest levels of “forever chemicals” found anywhere in the country.

According to PFAS Georgia, the expanded testing campaign will now focus on Rome and six nearby counties, including Floyd, Bartow, Polk, Paulding, Chattooga, and Haralson. The team says the decision was made after additional data showed an urgent need for more aggressive testing in communities affected by contamination tied to PFAS, a group of chemicals that can persist in the environment for years.

A press conference is planned for Monday, March 30, at 10 a.m. at the Forum River Center in Rome. Brockovich will be joined by PFAS Georgia attorney Ben Finley and water expert Bob Bowcock to discuss new water and soil test results, the testing expansion, and the latest updates involving litigation and proposed legislation connected to PFAS pollution. Organizers say the press conference will take place along the Oostanaula River, which has reportedly tested above safe limits for PFOA and PFAS.

Two public town halls are also planned to give residents a chance to learn more about the issue and ask questions directly. The first will be held Monday, March 30, at 6 p.m. at the Dalton Convention Center. A second town hall is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, at 6 p.m. at the Forum River Center in Rome.

The Dalton town hall is expected to include Brockovich, Finley, Bowcock, State Senator and Georgia Attorney General candidate Brian Strickland, and 14th Congressional District candidates Shawn Harris and Clay Fuller. The Rome town hall will feature Brockovich, Finley, Bowcock, Harris, and Fuller.

Organizers say the meetings will focus on how residents can have their property tested, what legal options may be available, and what homeowners and business owners can do to better protect their land and water. The PFAS Georgia team also plans to address proposed legislation they say could shield polluters from liability.

The issue has drawn growing attention across Northwest Georgia and beyond, as concerns continue over the possible long-term effects of PFAS contamination on communities, water systems, and property owners.