Ban on Firefighting Foam with PFAS Signed by California Governor

Firefighting foam containing so-called forever chemicals will be banned and firefighting gear treated with the same ingredients will require disclosure in California beginning in 2022, after Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed a bill Tuesday evening.

SB 1044 takes aim a Class B foams for petroleum and other liquid fires that contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Exposure to the compounds can cause increase cancer risks, liver issues, and other ill health effects.

Class B foam containing PFAS is used at airports, refineries, chemical plants, and military facilities.

Sen. Ben Allen (D), who authored the bill, said it would take a ...