To direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam containing PFAS, and for other purposes.

3/8/2023, 7:58 PM

This bill requires the Environmental Protection Agency to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam and other equipment that contains perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, to minimize the risk to firefighters, other first responders, and the environment, without jeopardizing firefighting efforts. PFAS are man-made and may have adverse human health effects. A variety of products contain PFAS, such as nonstick cookware or weatherproof clothing.

Bill 117 HR 4381, also known as the "PFAS Firefighting Foam Guidance Act," aims to address the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health risks, including cancer and immune system disorders.

The bill directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam containing PFAS. This guidance will provide recommendations on alternative firefighting foam formulations that do not contain PFAS, as well as strategies for reducing the overall use of PFAS-containing foam.

In addition to issuing guidance, the bill also requires the EPA to conduct a study on the environmental and health impacts of PFAS-containing firefighting foam. This study will help to further understand the risks associated with these chemicals and inform future regulatory actions. Overall, the PFAS Firefighting Foam Guidance Act seeks to address the potential risks posed by PFAS in firefighting foam and promote the use of safer alternatives. By providing guidance and conducting research, the bill aims to protect both public health and the environment from the harmful effects of these chemicals.
Congress
117

Number
HR - 4381

Introduced on
2021-07-09

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

7/9/2021

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

This bill requires the Environmental Protection Agency to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam and other equipment that contains perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, to minimize the risk to firefighters, other first responders, and the environment, without jeopardizing firefighting efforts. PFAS are man-made and may have adverse human health effects. A variety of products contain PFAS, such as nonstick cookware or weatherproof clothing.

Bill 117 HR 4381, also known as the "PFAS Firefighting Foam Guidance Act," aims to address the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health risks, including cancer and immune system disorders.

The bill directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam containing PFAS. This guidance will provide recommendations on alternative firefighting foam formulations that do not contain PFAS, as well as strategies for reducing the overall use of PFAS-containing foam.

In addition to issuing guidance, the bill also requires the EPA to conduct a study on the environmental and health impacts of PFAS-containing firefighting foam. This study will help to further understand the risks associated with these chemicals and inform future regulatory actions. Overall, the PFAS Firefighting Foam Guidance Act seeks to address the potential risks posed by PFAS in firefighting foam and promote the use of safer alternatives. By providing guidance and conducting research, the bill aims to protect both public health and the environment from the harmful effects of these chemicals.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam containing PFAS, and for other purposes.

Policy Areas
Environmental Protection

Potential Impact
Administrative law and regulatory procedures
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Environmental regulatory procedures
Fires
First responders and emergency personnel
Hazardous wastes and toxic substances
Law enforcement officers
Worker safety and health

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary9/3/2021

This bill requires the Environmental Protection Agency to issue guidance on minimizing the use of firefighting foam and other equipment that contains perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, to minimize the risk...


Latest Action7/12/2021
Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change.