Harrisburg, Pa. — A proposal to limit the use of firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also called PFAS and “forever chemicals,” is now law. The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), and Sen. Nick Miller (D-14), was originally introduced to the Pa. Senate in 2023.
The limitation was included in Senate Bill 804, now Act 98 of 2026, which phases out harmful chemicals in intravenous bags and other medical devices.
The new law restricts the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing PFAS beginning in July 2027. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS are man-made chemicals used since the 1940s that can accumulate in the environment and the human body over time, with studies linking exposure to adverse health effects.
“Compared to other emergency responders, firefighters can face significantly higher levels of PFAS exposure, putting them on the front lines of this national public health challenge,” Sen. Yaw said. “This is a commonsense response that will undoubtedly protect firefighters moving forward, while also safeguarding our ground and surface water from contamination.”
“This bipartisan legislation will protect our first responders and drinking water by phasing out dangerous PFAS while providing fire companies with financial assistance to transition to safer alternatives and properly dispose of existing foam,” commented Sen. Miller. “We have a responsibility to protect those who protect us.”
The new law reflects years of collaboration with fire service leaders, emergency responders, and industry representatives.
Fire companies may use Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant funding to cover the cost of properly disposing of PFAS-containing foam. The state fire commissioner, working with the Pa. Department of Environmental Protection, will oversee safe and environmentally responsible disposal.
The law includes an exemption for facilities where PFAS-based foam remains necessary for safety, such as airports, chemical plants, oil refineries, and sites handling flammable liquids or natural gas.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request.
Get Our Free Newsletters
Never miss a headline with NorthcentralPa.com newsletters.
Sign Up Today!
Morning Headlines: Would you like to receive our daily morning newsletter?
Afternoon Update: What’s happening today? Here’s your update!
Daily Obits: Get a daily list straight to your email inbox.
Keep your news local
Access to independent, local news is important, do you agree?
We work hard to deliver timely, relevant news, for free. 100% of your contribution to NorthcentralPa.com goes directly to helping us cover news and events in the region.
Thank you for saying that local news matters!