Excerpts from the ChicagoSunTimes.com:
Illinois will take a first step toward reducing the use of firefighting foam containing harmful “forever chemicals” under a bill signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday.
The measure aims to curb the use of one source of PFAS chemicals that are tied to a host of health threats, largely through a limitation on using the foam for anything other than emergencies. Fire departments that want to conduct drills or test the foam have to take precautions that prevent the chemicals from reaching waterways through sewer systems, for instance.
The bill, a compromise between environmental groups, an association of fire chiefs and industry groups, does not restrict any use in an emergency. The foam is used for serious industrial fires like those that can occur at a refinery, chemical plant or another source of flammable liquids.
Separately, state officials found more than 100 drinking water systems across Illinois with some PFAS contamination. The chemicals are used in a number of products, from stain-resistant clothing to non-stick pans.
Environmentalists called the reduction a first step.
Business groups originally opposed the bill, saying deadlines initially proposed would phase out an effective product before a comparable one was created.
Local fire departments used to train often with PFAS foam but began using alternatives for those drills largely because of the cost of using the specialty foam on anything other than a true disaster.
In addition to limiting the foam’s use in training exercises, departments will be required to report to the state any discharge or disposal of the product.
