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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Carol Hall and 1 co-sponsor

Establishes a PFAS Fire Apparatus Grant Program to fund removal and decontamination of PFAS on firefighting equipment, aiding fire departments and public safety.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Safety and Security

#chemicals #fireequipment

Overview

HB 6636, introduced January 24, 2025, seeks to establish a grant program to assist in removing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from fire apparatus. The bill is currently referred to the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security. The text provided only confirms the grant-focused purpose and the referral action; detailed provisions would appear in the full bill language.

Purpose and Intent

To reduce exposure to PFAS by facilitating removal or remediation of PFAS-containing components on firefighting apparatus.

To provide financial assistance to fire departments or related agencies to address PFAS-related equipment concerns, with the aim of improving safety for firefighters and the public, and complying with environmental health objectives.

Key Provisions (high-level)

Establishment of a PFAS Fire Apparatus Grant Program (or an equivalent mechanism) to fund removal/remediation efforts.

Authorized uses of grant funds likely include costs associated with:

Removal or decontamination of PFAS-containing materials on fire apparatus
Replacement of PFAS-containing components or systems
Safe disposal or management of PFAS-containing waste
Related equipment, training, or project costs necessary to achieve PFAS removal

Eligibility and applicants

Local fire departments, municipalities, or other appropriate public safety entities would typically be eligible; exact criteria would be defined in the bill.
Applications would generally require demonstration of need, project scope, and budget, and may include requirements for matching funds or cost-sharing.

Administration and oversight

A state agency (often the department of public safety, environmental agency, or a designated financing authority) would administer the grants.
Recipients would likely be required to report on progress, expenditures, and environmental outcomes.

Environmental and safety compliance

Projects would need to comply with applicable state environmental regulations and PFAS-related guidance.

Reporting and accountability

Periodic progress reports, final project documentation, and potential performance metrics related to PFAS removal effectiveness.

Affected Parties

Primary: Local and municipal fire departments and other public safety agencies responsible for fire apparatus.

Secondary: State agencies involved in environmental health, public safety, and grant administration; contractors and service providers assisting with PFAS removal or equipment replacement.

Funding and Timeline

Specific funding levels, grant formulas, and matching requirements are not provided in the summary available. The bill would authorize appropriations and establish administration rules in the full text.

Procedural timeline: After introduction, the bill is referred to the Public Safety and Security committee for hearings, potential amendments, and subsequent floor action. If enacted, the program would become operative upon passage and any required appropriations.

Next Steps for Readers

Review the full bill text for precise definitions (e.g., PFAS definition, eligible equipment, grant caps, matching requirements, and reporting obligations).

Monitor committee hearings on the bill for amendments, fiscal notes, and stakeholder testimony.

Note upcoming milestones in the legislative process, including potential votes and any interim guidance from the administering agency.

Bill