Massachusetts and Connecticut have become the first states to ban toxic PFAS chemicals from firefighter gear, aiming to protect firefighters from related health risks.
Minnah Arshad reports for USA TODAY.
In short:
- Massachusetts and Connecticut have banned PFAS in firefighter gear, with Massachusetts' law taking full effect in 2027.
- PFAS are widely used for their heat resistance but are linked to cancers and other health issues, prompting calls for safer alternatives.
- Firefighter and environmental groups hope these bans will lead to more states adopting similar measures.
Key quote:
“We want to, of course, protect our firefighters, but we should do so in a manner that does not harm their health.”
— Anne Hulick, Connecticut director of Clean Water Action
Why this matters:
PFAS chemicals persist in the environment and pose serious health risks, especially to firefighters regularly exposed to them. These state bans could inspire broader national efforts to eliminate PFAS from protective gear.
Learn more:
- Pioneering study links testicular cancer among military personnel to ‘forever chemicals’
- New Washington state bill is the “fastest timeline in the nation” for phasing out PFAS
- IN DEPTH: First-of-its kind testing points to dangers and unknowns of PFAS in clothing
