State Senators Gene Yaw (R-23) and Nick Miller (D-14) have introduced Senate Bill 980, a measure aimed at restricting the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Pennsylvania beginning in 2026.
The Environmental Protection Agency identifies PFAS as man-made chemicals that have been used in various products since the 1940s. These substances can accumulate over time in both the environment and human bodies, with studies linking exposure to negative 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.”
Yaw and Miller stated that developing the legislation involved collaboration with fire service leaders, emergency responders, and industry representatives since its initial introduction in 2019. The bill would allow fire companies to use Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant funding for costs related to disposing of foam containing PFAS. It also calls for cooperation between the State Fire Commissioner and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to ensure responsible disposal practices.
An exception remains for certain facilities where PFAS-based foam is considered essential for safety reasons; these include airports, chemical plants, oil refineries, terminals or storage sites handling flammable liquids or natural gas.
For further updates on state-related matters, constituents are encouraged to visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
