New Jersey Senate Bill S4346

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/12/25
• Refer: 5/12/25

Caption

Provides extension for fire departments on prohibition on use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; appropriates $500,000 to DEP for grant program to reimburse municipalities for costs of replacing firefighting foam.

Impact

The enactment of S4346 will modify existing state law by reinforcing restrictions on PFAS-laden firefighting foam, which is used primarily in combating flammable liquid fires. The bill appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to support a grant program. This program is designed to reimburse municipalities for costs associated with transitioning to compliant firefighting foam that does not contain PFAS. This funding is essential for facilitating the transition and ensuring that local fire departments are not burdened financially during the switch to safer products.

Summary

Senate Bill S4346 aims to amend existing legislation regarding the use of class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by fire departments in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill extends the prohibition on such firefighting foam until January 1, 2027, allowing fire departments additional time to transition to safer alternatives. The legislation recognizes the potential environmental impacts of PFAS which have been linked to various health issues and aims to mitigate their usage in hazardous materials management related to firefighting.

Contention

One area of contention in discussions around S4346 revolves around the timeline provided for fire departments to cease using PFAS-containing foams. Critics argue that a more immediate prohibition would be beneficial in reducing environmental contamination and public health risks, while supporters believe the extended timeline is necessary to ensure that adequate alternatives are available and that financial implications for municipalities are considered. Additionally, the bill recognizes exemptions for specific use cases under federal regulations, which may raise concerns from advocates for stricter environmental protections about the potential for continued PFAS usage under these circumstances.