Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher’s (TX-07) legislation directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue guidance to protect the health of first responders when using firefighting foam containing PFAS passed the Energy and Commerce Committee today as a part of the PFAS Action Act.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals used in a variety of industries, including in the foam used to put out chemical fires.  PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes and can accumulate in the body for long periods of time.

“I am glad that my bill to protect our first responders and communities from PFAS is included as a part of the PFAS Action Act that has just passed the Energy and Commerce Committee.  EPA guidance on the use of PFAS in firefighting foams can limit its exposure to the environment and protect the health of our first responders,” said Congresswoman Fletcher.  “First responders put their lives in danger to protect us, and passing this bill is a step in the right direction to minimize the risks PFAS chemicals pose to them, to our communities, and to our environment.”

Congresswoman Fletcher first introduced her legislation last Congress, and it passed the House of Representatives as a part of the PFAS Action Act. 

During the Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) plant fire in Deer Park, Texas in March 2019, fire fighters used more than 130,000 gallons of foam to extinguish the flames. High levels of PFAS were found in the water of the Houston Ship Channel and lower levels were found farther downstream, according to the Galveston Bay Foundation.