Massachusetts Governor Signs Landmark Law to Eliminate Toxic PFAS from Firefighters’ Gear
In a groundbreaking move to protect the health and safety of firefighters, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed into law a bill aimed at phasing out the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighters’ protective gear. The legislation, signed on Thursday at the statehouse in Boston, marks a significant step towards reducing the exposure of firefighters to these harmful industrial compounds.
PFAS chemicals, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to a range of serious health issues, including various types of cancer such as breast, kidney, and testicular cancer. These toxic compounds are used in firefighting gear to repel water and other substances during firefighting operations. The decision to eliminate PFAS from firefighters’ protective equipment comes as a response to mounting concerns over the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to these chemicals.
Governor Healey emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of firefighters, stating, “It’s one thing to run into a fire, you can see the blaze and feel the heat. But it’s another thing to face the threat of ‘forever chemicals’—a silent killer that has been endangering the health of firefighters and others for years.” She underscored the urgency of removing these dangerous substances from protective gear to safeguard the health of those on the front lines of emergency response.
The new law, set to take effect in phases starting January 2025, mandates that manufacturers and sellers of personal protective equipment containing PFAS provide written notice to purchasers at the time of sale. This requirement aims to increase transparency about the presence of PFAS in firefighting gear and inform users about the potential health risks associated with these chemicals. By 2027, manufacturers will be prohibited from knowingly selling gear containing intentionally-added PFAS chemicals, signaling a decisive shift towards safer alternatives for firefighters.
Richard MacKinnon, president of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts, hailed the legislation as a significant milestone in combatting occupational cancer among firefighters. He praised the stringent measures outlined in the new law, stating, “This is the strongest language in our nation. This next generation of firefighters— their lives will be saved.” The International Association of Fire Fighters has identified cancer as the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters, underscoring the critical need for protective measures against harmful substances like PFAS.
The push to eliminate PFAS from firefighting gear reflects a broader effort to reduce exposure to these toxic chemicals in various products and industries. Activists and environmental advocates emphasize the importance of extending these protections to everyday items like clothing, furniture, and food packaging to create toxic-free environments for all. Clint Richmond, conservation chair of the Massachusetts Sierra Club, emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard public health, asserting, “We have more to do to protect workers and the public from direct contact with PFAS. Next, we need to address everyday products like clothing and furniture. We all deserve toxic-free homes and cancer-free lives.”
While Massachusetts is leading the charge in phasing out PFAS from firefighters’ gear, other states have also taken steps to restrict the use of these harmful chemicals. Connecticut, for instance, has enacted legislation banning PFAS in children’s products, clothing, cookware, cosmetics, and more, reflecting a growing awareness of the risks posed by these substances. Vermont and Colorado have also implemented restrictions on PFAS in various consumer products, signaling a broader trend towards greater regulation of these hazardous compounds.
The impact of PFAS on firefighters’ health has prompted legal action against manufacturers and sellers of these chemicals and protective gear. In Connecticut, a class action complaint was filed on behalf of thousands of firefighters exposed to PFAS in their gear, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and protective measures. The mounting evidence of the health risks associated with PFAS underscores the importance of proactive measures to eliminate these substances from firefighters’ equipment and other consumer products.
As Massachusetts sets a precedent for phasing out PFAS in firefighting gear, stakeholders across the country are taking note of the importance of protecting first responders from exposure to harmful chemicals. The passage of this legislation represents a crucial step towards ensuring the health and safety of firefighters and underscores the need for continued vigilance in addressing the risks posed by PFAS in various industries. By prioritizing the well-being of those who put their lives on the line to protect others, states like Massachusetts are sending a powerful message about the importance of proactive measures to safeguard public health.
