STATEHOUSE (Jan. 30, 2023) – The Indiana House of Representatives today voted unanimously to advance State Rep. Julie Olthoff's (R-Crown Point) legislation that would help spread awareness about harmful, cancer-linked chemicals used to make firefighting gear.
PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are dubbed "forever chemicals" because they're nearly impossible to eliminate, and Olthoff said they are linked to various forms of cancer and other health conditions. Firefighter gear is made with PFAS for their heat and moisture resistant properties, but the chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, which could cause health issues. To spread awareness and protect firefighters, Olthoff said House Bill 1341 would require departments to only purchase firefighter clothing and other gear, if it contains a label stating whether or not it contains PFAS.
"The very equipment firefighters use to protect themselves may be causing long-term damage to their health and they're already at a higher risk for cancer," Olthoff said. "We know that PFAS are in firefighting gear, so we need to do more to spread awareness about the issue and further encourage manufacturers to bring alternative options to the marketplace."
Olthoff said the issue is part of a nationwide discussion and brought to her by a volunteer firefighter from St. John. The bill is supported by the Professional Firefighters of Indiana, the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association and the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association.
Indiana legislators took action in 2020 to prohibit firefighting foam containing PFAS from being used for training and testing purposes unless containment measures are in place. The state also operates a foam collection program and will remove and dispose of the substances for free from any agency that requests it.
HB 1341 now heads to the Senate for consideration. To learn more and follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) represents House District 19,
which includes portions of Lake and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo
