Casey Seiler is reporting at Capitol Confidential the state Senate Tue., Jan. 3, released its report on water quality issues. Its inquiry was prompted by the ongoing PFOA contamination crisis in Hoosick Falls. The 30-page report concludes with two pages of recommendations, including the creation of a “Drinking Water Quality Institute.” That group would be charged with setting specific requirements for unregulated contaminants such as PFOA, and establishing a list of toxins that water systems should test for. The institute would also set uniform guidelines for informing the public when a contaminant is found in a community water system. In addition, the report recommends the creation of a Clean Water Bond Act to finance the cost of installing filtration systems and water testing in some communities. The full Hannon Water Quality Report is available at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog. In related news, state Health Commissioner Howard Zucker announced Tuesday additional dates this month for free blood testing for Newburgh area residents concerned about their past exposures to PFOS and other PFCs from that city's public drinking water supply. The Newburgh water supply has tested at twice the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's recommended safety level for PFOS. The chemical has been linked to liver and kidney problems, as well as immune system issues. The city has been connected to a clean water source since May.