Pennsylvania lawmakers pass bill restricting toxic chemicals in firefighting foam
HAZLETON, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) — Pennsylvania lawmakers have passed legislation aimed at reducing firefighters' exposure to potentially harmful chemicals found in firefighting foam and protective equipment.
Senate Bill 804 would phase out certain firefighting foams containing PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," which have been linked to cancer and other serious health concerns.
The legislation passed the Pennsylvania General Assembly and now awaits Gov. Josh Shapiro's signature.
Under the bill, the manufacture, sale and distribution of Class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS would be prohibited beginning July 1, 2027. Fire departments would be barred from using the foam starting January 1, 2028.
Some exceptions would remain for facilities such as airports and oil refineries, where certain firefighting requirements may still apply.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that break down extremely slowly in the environment. They have been widely used in firefighting foam because of their ability to suppress flammable liquid fires.
However, the chemicals can seep into soil and groundwater, potentially contaminating drinking water supplies.
Firefighters face additional exposure risks because PFAS can also be found in their protective clothing, commonly called turnout gear.
The legislation would require manufacturers to provide warnings when firefighting protective equipment contains intentionally added PFAS.
It would also direct the Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner to help fire departments transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam and establish procedures for disposing of existing supplies.
Environmental advocates and firefighter organizations have pushed for restrictions on the chemicals for years.
"This is a win for every firefighter who has answered the call while unknowingly being exposed to 'forever chemicals,' and for every family that deserves clean water," said Jen Quinn, legislative director for the Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter.
PFAS contamination has been documented near military installations, airports and firefighting training facilities, where the chemicals were used for decades.
Research has associated exposure to certain PFAS with increased risks of kidney and testicular cancers, immune system effects and other health problems.
Supporters say the legislation could help reduce future contamination while giving firefighters more information about potentially hazardous chemicals in their equipment.
"Clean water and firefighter safety are not competing priorities — they go hand in hand," Quinn said.
If signed into law, Pennsylvania would join a growing number of states restricting PFAS-containing firefighting foam.