To direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a compensation fund for military firefighters exposed to PFAS.
1/24/2025, 9:20 AMSummary of Bill HR 705
Bill 119 HR 705, also known as the "Military Firefighters Exposed to PFAS Compensation Act," aims to address the issue of military firefighters who have been exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) while carrying out their duties. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health risks, including cancer and reproductive issues.The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a compensation fund specifically for military firefighters who have been exposed to PFAS. This fund would provide financial assistance to these individuals to help cover medical expenses and other costs associated with their exposure to PFAS.
The goal of this legislation is to ensure that military firefighters who have put their lives on the line to protect others are properly taken care of if they have been harmed by exposure to PFAS. By establishing a compensation fund, the bill seeks to provide these individuals with the support they need to address any health issues that may arise as a result of their exposure to these harmful chemicals. Overall, Bill 119 HR 705 is a proactive measure to support and protect military firefighters who have been exposed to PFAS while serving their country. It recognizes the sacrifices these individuals have made and aims to provide them with the assistance they need to address any health issues that may arise from their exposure to these dangerous chemicals.
Congressional Summary of HR 705
This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to establish the Military Firefighters Compensation Fund to provide compensation to current and former military firefighters, or survivors of such firefighters, for illnesses incurred in the line of duty due to exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS. PFAS are man-made and may have adverse human health effects.
Under the bill, current and former military firefighters are presumed to have been exposed to PFAS (in the absence of substantial evidence to the contrary) if the firefighter was employed at a military installation, facility of the National Guard, or formerly used defense site during a period when PFAS would have been present at such facility.
The bill provides that in cases where a military firefighter is deceased at the time of payment of compensation, the surviving spouse must receive the payment. If there is no surviving spouse, the bill provides for the order of distribution to other surviving parties (e.g., a child or parent of the firefighter). The bill also provides that a survivor of a firefighter may file a claim for compensation if the firefighter dies before filing a claim.
DOD must furnish the services, appliances, and supplies prescribed or recommended to a military firefighter who is receiving medical benefits for an illness related to PFAS exposure. Additionally, such firefighter may be furnished necessary and reasonable transportation and expenses incident to securing care for such illness.
