Jimmy Vielkind is reporting at Politico New York U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said Wed., Aug. 11, she is “very grateful” for state and federal hearings that will focus on the presence of toxic chemicals in the water supply of communities like Hoosick Falls. She added that she hopes they will result in “real” medical monitoring for affected residents. Gillibrand, a Democrat, said she was not satisfied with how the government has handled the issue. “Frankly, I think the entire government’s response isn’t enough because people have so many questions. The anxiety level is so high,” she said. The state has been accused of a slow response to the detection of PFOA, a chemical used in the production of Teflon-coated products. It has been linked to cancer and immune system disorders. Another forum for residents in the village of Hoosick Falls is scheduled for Thursday evening. Residents of that Rensselaer County village have an average PFOA blood level at 30 times the national average, according to recent tests. Gillibrand said, “What the state should do, what the Legislature should do after they have their hearings, is really talk to these polluters and say, we want you to pay for medical monitoring for the life of these residents.” Read the full story at Politico New York.