A bill sponsored by Sen. Gene Yaw and Sen. Nick Miller to restrict the use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was approved by the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee on Apr. 21.
The measure, Senate Bill 980, aims to address health risks associated with PFAS exposure among firefighters and prevent environmental contamination. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been used since the 1940s and can build up in people and the environment over time.
“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.”
Miller said, “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. 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.”
Since its introduction in 2019, Senate Bill 980 has involved collaboration with fire service leaders, emergency responders, and industry representatives. The proposal would allow fire companies access to grant funding for proper disposal of existing PFAS-containing foam under oversight from the State Fire Commissioner working with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
The legislation includes exemptions for certain facilities where PFAS-based foam remains necessary for safety reasons—such as airports or chemical plants—and now moves forward for consideration by the full Senate.
Yaw’s background includes representing areas in Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union counties according to his official website. He chaired both community activities like Little League Baseball coaching according to his official website as well as serving on several state committees according to his official website. He also provided general counsel for more than two decades at Pennsylvania College of Technology according to his official website.
