By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $25 million in bonding for the reduction of firefighters’ exposure to dangerous PFAS through three avenues – the purchase of PFAS-free protective turnout gear, the responsible disposal of equipment contaminated with PFAS and the research and development of safer turnout gear that does not contain PFAS.

PFAs is a class designation that includes nearly 10,000 chemicals used to make everyday items fireproof, waterproof or non-stick. Supporters said that even at low levels, the toxicity of PFAS chemicals can be devastating, increasing the risk of cancer, immunosuppression, birth defects, colitis and other diseases.

“I introduced this amendment … because I strongly believe that, when newer and cleaner solutions are developed, the harms of using risky chemicals begin to far outweigh the benefits,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Mike Moore (D-Millbury). “We are now one step closer to stripping toxic PFAS chemicals out of the gear our firefighters wear every day. I could not be more thrilled about the huge policy win this amendment represents, and I know that the firefighters who will no longer have to wear toxic gear are thankful too.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes