This bill extends the prohibition on the use of class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by fire departments in New Jersey, delaying the enforcement date to January 1, 2027. The new legal language specifies that beginning two years after the effective date of the act, no person shall use or sell such foam, with certain exceptions for federal requirements and specific facilities. Additionally, the bill allows for the continued use of PFAS-containing foam under certain conditions for oil refineries and petroleum terminals until eight years after the act's effective date, with provisions for waivers and reporting requirements.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection to support a grant program aimed at reimbursing municipalities for the costs associated with replacing PFAS-containing firefighting foam. This funding is intended to assist in the transition to compliant firefighting foam alternatives, ensuring that municipalities can meet the new regulations without incurring significant financial burdens. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 56:8-229