HARRISBURG – A bill to limit the use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was approved by the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee today, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) and Sen. Nick Miller (D-14), sponsors of the measure.
Senate Bill 980 would restrict the manufacture, sale, distribution and use of firefighting foam containing PFAS beginning in 2026. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS are man-made chemicals used since the 1940s that can accumulate in the environment and the human body over time, with studies linking exposure to adverse health effects.
“Firefighters can face an extremely higher level of PFAS exposure compared to other emergency responders,” Yaw said. “PFAS contamination is a national public health challenge, and this bill is a commonsense response, which has already been adopted by many states. It will undoubtedly protect firefighters moving forward, while also safeguarding our ground and surface water from contamination.”
“This bipartisan legislation takes decisive action to phase out dangerous substances, protecting the long-term health of our frontline heroes while preventing lasting contamination of our soil and water,” said Miller. “It reflects our responsibility to those who risk their lives in service to our communities. I look forward to advancing this bill as we put the well-being of those who serve at the forefront, safeguard public health and advocate for environmental protection.”
The lawmakers said the bill reflects years of collaboration with fire service leaders, emergency responders and industry representatives since its introduction in 2019. The proposal would allow fire companies to use Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant funding to cover the cost of properly disposing of PFAS-containing foam. The State Fire Commissioner, working with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, would oversee safe and environmentally responsible disposal.
The bill includes an exemption for facilities where PFAS-based foam remains necessary for safety, such as airports, chemical plants, oil refineries and sites handling flammable liquids or natural gas.
Senate Bill 980 now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Sen. Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or Sen. Miller’s website at www.PASenatorMiller.com.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel (Yaw)
717-787-3280
Gail Vivar (Miller)
717-787-7105