Representatives Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and Debbie Dingell (MI-06), along with several colleagues, have reintroduced the Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act). This bipartisan legislation aims to develop PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters, reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals.
The act comes in response to studies indicating that all layers of firefighter turnout gear contain Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals.” These substances are linked to serious health issues, including cancer, which is a leading cause of death among firefighters.
Kean emphasized the importance of prioritizing the health and safety of firefighters by eliminating toxic substances from their equipment. Dingell echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unnecessary occupational hazard posed by PFAS in turnout gear.
Fitzpatrick noted that firefighters face enough risks without exposure to cancer-causing chemicals in their protective gear. He stressed the need for real protections through targeted, bipartisan action.
Bonamici expressed gratitude for joining her colleagues in introducing legislation aimed at developing safer turnout gear free from dangerous PFAS chemicals. Graves highlighted the role of this bipartisan effort in developing next-generation firefighting gear to keep firefighters safe.
Titus underscored the need for new gear resistant to hazardous substances like PFAS while Ivey shared his personal experience as a kidney cancer survivor to emphasize the importance of this initiative.
Thompson described the PFAS Alternatives Act as commonsense legislation investing in safer equipment for first responders. The act proposes accelerating research and development of PFAS-free materials and facilitating safer turnout gear design.
The bill would authorize $25 million annually from 2025 through 2029 for material development and an additional $2 million annually for guidance and training. It is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).
IAFF General President Edward Kelly stated, “The science is clear. Exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals is driving alarming rates of cancer in the fire service.” He urged Congress to pass the bill swiftly, emphasizing its critical role in protecting firefighters with next-generation, PFAS-free gear.
