State Rep. Brian Munroe, D-Bucks, introduced bipartisan legislation that would prohibit the manufacture, sale, distribution and use of firefighting foam containing toxic PFAS chemicals beginning in 2026.
The legislation includes provisions to help fire companies responsibly dispose of existing PFAS-laden foam. Under the proposal, fire departments would be permitted to use state grant funding to cover disposal costs. Additionally, the bill directs the Office of the State Fire Commissioner to work closely with the Department of Environmental Protection to ensure the safe handling and disposal of banned materials. Violations of the prohibition would result in fines, with proceeds going directly to firefighter training programs.
Credit: State Rep Eric J. Weaknecht
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals linked to a range of serious health risks, including cancer and environmental contamination. These chemicals are often found in Class B firefighting foams, which have historically been used to combat flammable liquid fires – particularly on military bases and at airports.
Credit: Sunshine Foundation
A two-time cancer survivor, Munroe has been a vocal advocate for PFAS reform. In September, he co-hosted a joint policy hearing at the Warminster Township Building to examine the impact of PFAS and discuss legislative solutions.
The region, including Warminster, Warrington, Ivyland and New Britain, is among the most heavily affected areas in the country due to legacy PFAS contamination at former and active military bases.
“As a former firefighter, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of PFAS – on our water, our health and our communities,” Munroe said. “This legislation is a commonsense step to protect firefighters and ensure safe, clean drinking water for future generations. We now have effective, PFAS-free alternatives – it’s time to transition responsibly.”
Munroe, a Navy veteran, has been directly affected by PFAS exposure in his own career.
“I’ve fought fires where this foam was used, and I’ve seen the long-term dangers of these chemicals,” Munroe added. “This legislation isn’t just about banning something dangerous – it’s about helping our fire companies adapt, disposing of harmful chemicals the right way, and investing in the future of public safety.”
The Department of Defense and many large fire departments across Pennsylvania have already begun switching to PFAS-free foam, which is available at competitive prices and offers effective fire suppression.
“Looking out for those who protect us and our communities is of the utmost priority,” said state Rep. Zach Mako, R-Northampton/Lehigh, the bill’s prime cosponsor.
This legislation builds on momentum from the previous legislative session, when significant progress was made on PFAS-related reforms. Munroe and Mako are now calling on colleagues from both sides of the aisle to join them in passing this life-saving measure.
The state Reps said in their memo seeking additional co-sponsors that they worked with the Senate to make real progress on this issue last session.
Sponsoring this bill will finish the effort at saving save firefighters’ lives, and keep our communities safe, Munroe and Mako said.
The bill, which has 15 cosponsors, has not yet been assigned a bill number or committee as of publication time.
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