New Pennsylvania law bans 'forever chemicals' in firefighting foam
Pennsylvania has a new law to ban the manufacture, sale and distribution of Class B firefighting foams containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals. In Pennsylvania, 96% of waterways tested from 2022 to 2024 contained PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," according to a new study. Jennifer Quinn, legislative and political director for the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Sierra Club, said Senate Bill 804 passed both chambers this session and Gov. Josh Shapiro signed it into law in October. She noted environmental organizations have worked with the state's firefighter union for six years to get the bill passed . "Getting PFAS-containing firefighting foam banned not only protects firefighters, it protects drinking water and soil, and communities," Quinn outlined. Data from the Sierra Club revealed how PFAS contamination is affecting rural Pennsylvania communities . The long-lasting chemicals have been linked to certain cancers, immune system problems and other health risks, with firefighters facing greater exposure through firefighting foam and contaminated protective gear. PFAS has also been shown to pollute groundwater and drinking water near military bases, airports and training sites across the state. Quinn said the ban on Class B firefighting foam containing PFAS starts July 1, 2027. Departments will no longer be
