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, setting a new compliance deadline of January 1, 2027. The legislation amends existing law to clarify that, starting two years after its effective date, no person shall use or sell such foam, with specific exceptions for federal requirements and certain facilities, including oil refineries and petroleum terminals, which may continue using PFAS-containing foam under defined conditions until eight years after the effective date. The bill also establishes reporting requirements for the use of PFAS foam and mandates that manufacturers notify sellers about the new regulations.

Additionally, 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 with compliant alternatives. This funding is intended to assist local fire departments in transitioning to safer firefighting practices while adhering to the new regulations. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 56:8-229