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SB 17

AN ACT CONCERNING FUNDING FOR THE REMOVAL OF PFAS FROM FIRE APPARATUS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Delnicki and 7 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill allocates state funding to remove PFAS contamination from fire department equipment to reduce public health and environmental risks from persistent toxic chemicals.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Appropriations
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Bill Summary · SB 17

Legislative bill overview

SB 17 proposes state funding to remove PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as "forever chemicals") from fire apparatus and related firefighting equipment used by Connecticut fire departments. The bill addresses contamination concerns from aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) historically used in firefighting training and emergency response. This would likely require appropriating state funds to replace or decontaminate affected equipment.

Why is this important

PFAS chemicals persist indefinitely in the environment and have been detected in drinking water supplies and groundwater across Connecticut, creating documented public health risks including links to kidney disease, thyroid disease, and immune system effects. Fire departments themselves face occupational exposure risks, and contaminated equipment can spread PFAS to water systems during use and maintenance. This bill addresses both firefighter safety and broader environmental contamination from a source that was previously unregulated.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget impact: Removing PFAS from fire apparatus statewide could be expensive; the bill provides no specific funding amount, leaving fiscal questions unresolved
  • State vs. local responsibility: Debate over whether the state should fund this or if municipalities/fire departments should bear costs
  • Scope definition: Unclear whether this covers only removal/replacement or also includes remediation of contaminated training sites and equipment storage areas

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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