WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Firefighter Health Coalition welcomes the introduction of the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act of 2026, introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) as S. 5410 and in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Darren Soto (D-Fla.) as H.R. 10462.
The legislation would establish a federal compensation program for eligible firefighters, as well as the families of deceased firefighters, who have suffered qualifying injuries or deaths associated with exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals.”
The Firefighter Health Coalition congratulates Senator Booker and Congressman Soto on the introduction of the legislation and recognizes their continued attention to the health risks firefighters face as a result of occupational exposure to PFAS.
“Firefighters dedicate their careers to protecting their communities, often without knowing that the very equipment designed to protect them may expose them to chemicals associated with serious health consequences,” said Dr. Andre McShan, President of the Firefighter Health Coalition. “We welcome the introduction of the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act and appreciate Senator Booker and Congressman Soto for continuing to bring attention to the firefighters and families who have been affected by PFAS exposure. This legislation recognizes the sacrifices firefighters make throughout their years of service and the health consequences that can follow them long after that service.”
Firefighters can encounter PFAS through firefighting foam and protective equipment, including turnout gear. The proposed legislation would establish a claims process through which eligible firefighters or the families of deceased firefighters could seek compensation for qualifying PFAS-related conditions.
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