Connecticut House Bill HB05818

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Use Of Pfas In Firefighting Foam.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5818 would amend existing environmental statutes to prohibit the use of PFAS in all forms of firefighting foam utilized by fire departments and other emergency services. This change would require local fire departments to seek alternative solutions for firefighting foams, likely leading to increased costs in procurement and training. The modification also leaves open questions regarding the transition period to new materials and the availability of safe replacements. Additionally, the law would not only impact firefighting operations but could also affect other industries that use PFAS-containing products, necessitating a comprehensive review of current practices.

Summary

House Bill 5818 seeks to prohibit the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam. The bill aims to address environmental concerns associated with these chemicals, which have been linked to various health issues and environmental contamination. By banning PFAS in firefighting practices, the legislature intends to safeguard both the environment and public health, aligning with broader efforts to regulate harmful substances in various industries. The proposed legislation is an important step towards reducing the ecological impact of firefighting activities and preventing further contamination from these persistent pollutants.

Contention

While many stakeholders, including environmental advocates, support the ban on PFAS, there may be notable contention surrounding the feasibility and timeline for implementation. Opponents might argue about potential operational challenges and the costs associated with transitioning to alternative firefighting methods. There could also be discussions on whether adequate substitutes that ensure the same level of firefighting effectiveness exist. Some stakeholders may highlight that the timing of this change could disrupt firefighting capabilities, thereby putting public safety at risk during the transition.