Requesting The Delaware State Fire School To Develop A Program For The Disposal Of Aqueous Film Forming Foam Currently In The Possession Of The State Of Delaware Fire Companies And Departments.
This resolution reflects a proactive approach to addressing the environmental risks associated with the use of AFFF by the Delaware fire service. It calls on the Fire School to assess existing inventories of AFFF and create a structured plan that includes timelines for disposal, methods of safe disposal, potential environmental impacts, and associated costs. It also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that fire departments are not financially burdened by the transition to alternative firefighting foams that comply with environmental standards. As such, this legislation is poised to enhance public safety and environmental protection by mitigating the risks posed by PFAS-containing substances.
House Concurrent Resolution 20 (HCR20) requests the Delaware State Fire School to develop a program for the safe disposal of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) currently held by Delaware fire departments and companies. AFFF is recognized for its effectiveness in fire suppression, particularly in combating flammable liquid fires. However, it contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and potential harmful effects on human health. The resolution aims to responsibly manage this hazardous material amidst growing national concerns over PFAS contamination.
The general sentiment around HCR20 has been positive among lawmakers and environmental advocates. The bill emphasizes concern for both public health and environmental integrity, aligning with increasing public awareness regarding the dangers of PFAS chemicals. While there have been no significant points of contention noted in the discussions, the implementation of the proposed program will necessitate cooperation between various state agencies and stakeholders, ensuring that the objectives are met without imposing undue costs on fire service providers.
While the bill is largely supported, any potential contention may arise from concerns about the specifics of the disposal program, particularly regarding the environmental impact of disposal methods and costs associated with procuring alternative foams. There is also the necessity for the program's timelines and requirements to be manageable for local fire departments. Furthermore, as states across the U.S. grapple with similar challenges pertaining to PFAS substances, HCR20 positions Delaware as a forerunner in creating meaningful policy responses, though its success will depend on the meticulous planning and execution of the proposed disposal strategy.