This bill aims to enhance the safety of firefighters by regulating the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS chemicals) in their personal protective equipment and uniforms. It amends RSA 154:8-c to define new terms such as "firefighting station wear" and to renumber existing definitions accordingly. The bill mandates that manufacturers or sellers of firefighting personal protective equipment must provide written notice at the time of sale indicating whether the equipment contains PFAS chemicals. This notice must also be included in the personnel files of employees using the equipment, and a copy must be provided directly to the employee.

Furthermore, the bill requires the retention of the notice in procurement files for at least three years and makes it available to the department upon request. The department is tasked with assisting in prioritizing the purchase of PFAS-free firefighting equipment. The bill also encourages fire departments to prefer safer alternatives when available and to limit unnecessary exposure to equipment containing PFAS until such alternatives are provided. Starting January 1, 2025, fire departments will not be allowed to purchase firefighting station wear containing intentionally added PFAS or non-polymeric fire-resistive chemicals, and from July 1, 2025, they will not be allowed to wear such station wear. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 154:8-c
As Amended by the House: 154:8-c
As Amended by the Senate: 154:8-c
Version adopted by both bodies: 154:8-c
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 154:8-c