CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A new state law limits the use of harmful foam used to fight some fires.
Firefighting foam is just one source of PFAS chemicals, known as “forever chemicals”, which among other environmental concerns, can contaminate drinking water.
Under the legislation, the only use of the foam is for emergencies, such as serious industrial fires that can occur at a refinery or chemical plant.
In training, fire departments that want to use the foam will have to prevent it from getting into sewer systems. They will also be required to report to the state any discharge or disposal of the product.
The bill was a compromise between environmental groups, an association of fire chiefs, and industry groups.
Meanwhile, according to the Sun-Times, state officials found more than 100 drinking water systems across Illinois with some PFAS contamination.
Environmentalists see this new legislation as a start.
“This new law is a foothold in moving Illinois in the right direction on one of the most frightening threats to our clean water,” Iyana Simba, city programs director at the Illinois Environmental Council said in an emailed statement to the Sun-Times.
Related
