Bill would ban PFAS contaminated firefighting foams that threaten public health and the environment
WASHINGTONSen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), and Rep. Dan Kildee, (MI-5) introduced this week the PFAS Firefighter Protection Act to the Senate and House. The bill aims ban firefighting foams containing PFAS chemicals. The main source of PFAS groundwater contamination in America is firefighting foams. They are commonly used at military installations and airports. The bill would make it mandatory that such foams cease to be used within two years of its passing.
PFAS are not affected by the environment and have been given the nickname “forever chemicals”. Links to research Exposure to PFAS in humansPFAS can cause cancer, immune system deficiencies and low fertility. It can also cause high cholesterol and low fertility. PFAS have a number of health effects that are magnified by the fact that the chemicals accumulate in our bodies, soil, water, and blood and remain in the environment indefinitely.
The PFAS Firefighter Protection Act will build on legislation that was previously supported by Environment America and U.S. PIRG. It would also repeal the Defense Department’s use of PFAS foams by October 2024.
The following statements were made by experts from Environment America and U.S. PIRG in response:
Sean Hoffmann, Environment America Federal Legislative advocate, said:
Environment America welcomes the introduction this important legislation to protect firefighters, communities, and environment from toxic forever chemicals. The PFAS Firefighter Protection Act will not only ensure firefighters are not unnecessary exposed to cancer-causing PFAS but also protect communities against groundwater contamination from PFAS foams. We call on Congress to pass this sensible legislation that will keep our firefighters safe and our communities from unnecessary exposure to dangerous PFAS.
Emily Rogers, U.S. PIRG Zero Out Toxics advocate, said:
The PFAS Firefighter Protect Act was long overdue. Almost all Americans have PFAS in them. We don’t have the time to waste and must eliminate PFAS from our bodies as soon as possible. We are grateful to Sen. Gillibrand as well as Rep. Kildee who stood up for firefighters and their communities. We look forward working together to pass this important legislation to end the pervasive threat from these forever chemicals.