The proposed bill, titled the "Joe Casello Act," aims to regulate the use and distribution of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The bill establishes a new section in Florida Statutes, defining AFFF and outlining a phased prohibition on its use, sale, and possession. Starting July 1, 2026, the use of AFFF for nonemergency training or 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, 2028, possession and use of AFFF will be completely banned, with certain exceptions for federal aviation facilities, military applications, and emergency situations.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to require public entities that dispose of domestic wastewater biosolids and treated effluent to conduct quarterly samplings for PFAS and report the results to the DEP. 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 to safer products. Violations of the act may result in civil penalties and injunctive relief sought by the department. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.