HARRISBURG – State Senators Gene Yaw (R-23) and Nick Miller (D-14) recently introduced Senate Bill 980 which limits the manufacture, sale, distribution and use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) beginning in 2026.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in many products since the 1940s. The chemical can build up in the environment and in the human body over time and studies have shown that exposure can lead 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. This bill will undoubtedly protect firefighters moving forward, while also safeguarding our ground and surface water from contamination.”
“Today, we take a significant step toward protecting firefighters and communities across Pennsylvania from exposure to hazardous chemicals known as PFAS,” said Sen. Miller. “Together with Sen. Yaw, this bipartisan legislation is set to phase out these harmful substances while safeguarding the long-term health of our frontline heroes and preventing soil and water contamination. Based on my direct conversations with firefighters in my district and the policy hearings I have conducted, it is evident that firefighters require support now more than ever. This legislation prioritizes their needs and protects those who selflessly serve our communities.”
The lawmakers said the legislation is the result of extensive collaboration with fire service leaders, emergency responders and industry representatives since the bill was first introduced in 2019. The proposal would allow fire companies to use their Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant funding to cover the costs associated with the proper disposal of PFAS-laden foam. Additionally, the State Fire Commissioner would work in coordination with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to ensure responsible and environmentally sound disposal practices.
Yaw and Miller noted the bill maintains an exception for facilities where PFAS-based foam remains critical for safety, including airports, chemical plants, oil refineries and terminals or storage sites handling flammable liquids or natural gas.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel (Yaw)
717-787-3280
Gail Vivar (Miller)
717-787-7105