Gov. signs law addressing PFAS in firefighter turnout gear

Gov. Maura Healey on Aug. 15 signed a bill that addresses exposure to so-called “forever chemicals,” also known as PFAS, in personal protective equipment worn by firefighters.

The new law requires manufacturers of firefighting protective equipment — such as jackets, pants, footwear, gloves, helmets and respiratory equipment — to provide notice to buyers if the products contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

The law includes a provision that blocks manufacturers from selling or distributing any equipment that contains “intentionally added PFAS” by 2027. The ban and a disclosure requirement are intended to spur development of PFAS-free alternatives to reduce exposure for firefighters.

PFAS are a family of chemicals used since the 1950s in the manufacture of stain-resistant, water-resistant, heat-resistant, and non-stick products. Also found in firefighting foam and other fire retardants, PFAS have been detected in water and soil sources in Massachusetts.

Studies show that exposure to PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The report and recommendations of the PFAS Interagency Task Force states that the prevalence of PFAS in firefighting foams and firefighter personal protective equipment can lead to firefighters experiencing higher exposure to PFAS and higher rates of cancer diagnosis and cancer-related deaths than the general population.

The PFAS law signed by the governor had been enacted by the Senate on July 29 and by the House during a marathon formal session that continued into the morning of Aug. 1.

A larger, more comprehensive PFAS bill, which would implement additional recommendations of the PFAS Interagency Task Force, could still be taken up by the Legislature during informal or special sessions through the end of the calendar year.

The larger bill includes provisions that would protect public health and address environmental concerns and remediation efforts related to the range of PFAS chemicals, including a dedicated PFAS Remediation Trust Fund intended to help municipalities, private well owners, and public water systems mitigate the impacts of PFAS contamination in drinking water, groundwater, and soils.

The larger PFAS bill remains under the review of the House Committee on Ways and Means.