The bill, known as the "Joe Casello Act," addresses the regulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), specifically focusing on aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). It establishes a new section in Florida law that defines AFFF and outlines a phased prohibition on its use, sale, and distribution. Starting July 1, 2026, the use of AFFF for nonemergency training and testing will be banned, and entities must report their inventories to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). By July 1, 2027, the sale and distribution of AFFF will be prohibited, and entities must submit disposal plans for any remaining inventory. Finally, by July 1, 2029, possession and use of AFFF will be entirely banned, with certain exceptions for airports, military applications, emergency situations, and specific retrofit projects.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to require public entities that dispose of significant amounts of domestic wastewater biosolids and treated effluent to conduct quarterly samplings for PFAS and report the results to the DEP. These samplings will be for informational purposes only until the United States Environmental Protection Agency establishes water quality standards for these substances. The DEP is tasked with adopting rules for the containment and disposal of AFFF, maintaining a registry of alternative firefighting foams, and providing technical assistance and grants to facilitate the transition away from PFAS-containing products. Violations of this act may result in civil penalties and injunctive relief sought by the department.