Congressman Ivey Co-Sponsors Legislation to Ban PFAS from Firefighter Equipment
Congressman Glenn Ivey (D) is a co-sponsor of Michigan Democrat Debbie Dingell’s legislation to remove PFAS, a harmful fluorinated chemical often known as “forever” chemicals, from firefighter gear. These chemicals are persistent, accumulate in the bloodstream, and are toxic. They are linked to harmful human health effects, including reproductive and developmental harms, weakened immune systems, and cancer: the leading cause of firefighter death.
Congressman Ivey spoke with PGFD Chief Tiffany Green and local firefighters about the need for this legislation to help gain more insights about their concerns, and ensure they are addressed in the bill.
D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb recently announced a lawsuit against 25 chemical companies for manufacturing, marketing, distributing, and selling products containing these dangerous chemicals that presently pollute the natural resources of D.C. and surrounding areas.
The legislation, Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act), would authorize $25 million annually for 2024 through 2028 to support the development of new materials, and an additional $2 million annually to support guidance and training. It would also accelerate the development of PFAS-free turnout gear through research, development, and testing and allow firefighters to have a role in the change process.
“First responders deserve first-rate gear. They put their lives on the line every day to save ours. We must not make those who risk their lives wear even riskier equipment and handle even more dangerous materials,” said Ivey.
The PFAS Alternatives Act is supported by the International Association of Fire Fighters and Globe Manufacturing Company.
“PFAS are directly linked to cancer. And as a kidney cancer survivor, I know the hardship, uncertainty and fear any family would experience being exposed to cancer causing materials. This bill will save our firefighters from this exposure and is a good way to show our appreciation to the men and women who are ready to rush into danger when others dodge it.”