Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) is excited to share that the Massachusetts legislature has passed a bill to protect firefighters from PFAS!
S.2902, “An Act Relative to the Reduction of Certain Toxic Chemicals in Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment” is a constructive first step towards greater action to protect public health and demonstrates the state’s commitment to addressing the dangers posed by toxic chemicals. Massachusetts is just the second state in the country to take action on this critical issue, and MBCC is hopeful that more states will follow. Firefighters are on the front lines of chemical exposure, and this bill helps to reduce their risk, ultimately benefiting the whole state.
Bill S.2902 bans the manufacture, sale, and distribution of PFAS-containing personal protective firefighting equipment, as of January 1, 2027. It also requires manufacturers to disclose, at point of sale, whether this protective equipment contains PFAS until the ban is in effect. The bill is now headed to Governor Healey, and MBCC is optimistic that she will sign the bill into law. MBCC extends profound gratitude to the bill’s sponsors, Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury) and Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro), for their dedication to public health and safety.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known to be toxic and are linked to many adverse health effects, including cancer. Similarly, the presence of toxic chemicals in children’s products poses severe risks to their development and long-term health. The passage of these bills would have marked a significant step towards safeguarding public health by limiting exposure to these dangerous substances.
MBCC is disappointed that Bill H.4486, “An Act to Protect Massachusetts Public Health from PFAS,” and S.2564, “An Act Relative to Toxic-Free Kids,” did not pass in the Massachusetts legislature. However, we are hopeful that further legislative action will be taken against PFAS in our ongoing efforts to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals linked to breast cancer and other health risks.
MBCC extends its heartfelt gratitude to Bill H.4486’s sponsors, Representative Kate Hogan (D-Stow) and Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro), and Bill S.2564’s sponsors, Representative James Hawkins (D-Attleboro) and Senator Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington) for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health.
MBCC will continue to work diligently to educate and advocate for effective public health policies and practices that prioritize the health and well-being of our communities. We encourage all Massachusetts residents to stay informed about PFAS and to support ongoing efforts to eliminate these hazardous substances from our environment.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our mission. Together, we will keep striving for a healthier future for all.