Safety & Health

MA Governor Signs Law to Protect Firefighters from PFAS

Aug. 16, 2024

By 2027, manufacturers will no longer be able to sell equipment that contains PFAS in the state.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed a bill into law on Thursday that protects firefighters from toxic chemicals.

The law states that all gear containing PFAS will have to be clearly labeled by January 2025. By 2027, manufacturers will no longer be able to sell or distribute equipment that contains PFAS in the state.

“Our firefighters are our heroes. It is essential that they have comprehensive information about what’s in their protective gear so that they can make informed choices that are best for them,” Healy said.

Firefighters are pleased she signed the bill.

“I’ve had a mass removed. Half my staff have had some type of medical issue," Fall River Acting District Chief Frank O’Reagan told WPRI.

“This is a very good day for us. This is a good change.”

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.