An Ohio bill that seeks to outlaw the use of firefighting foam that contains harmful “forever chemicals” passed committee and is awaiting a vote in the Ohio House of Representatives.
House Bill 158, sponsored by Representative Brian Baldridge, makes use of firefighting foam that contains PFAS illegal. If it passes the House, firefighters will need to find an alternative to the foam. Furthermore, firefighters will also only be able to use the foam for training in areas where the chemicals from the foam will not harm the surrounding environment.
Although it is unclear as to when HB158 will reach the House floor, the addition of Representative Phil Plummer as a co-sponsor is expected to be announced soon.
Baldridge wants to see the bill passed, as PFAS, referred to as “forever chemicals,” remain in the atmosphere long after use. They have been linked to increased cholesterol levels and cancer, as well as increased risk during pregnancy.
The use of foams that contain these toxins is also linked to contaminated water sources in cities in Ohio.
Source: Dayton Daily News, Firefighter Nation
