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HB 7120

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

2025 Regular Session

Connecticut bill authorizes state grants to help fire departments remove and replace PFAS-contaminated firefighting equipment, addressing chemical health and environmental contamination risks.

FILE NO. 830
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Bill Summary · HB 7120

Legislative bill overview

HB 7120 establishes a grant program to fund the removal and replacement of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from firefighting equipment, specifically fire apparatus. The bill allocates state resources to help fire departments eliminate these "forever chemicals" from their operations, addressing contamination concerns in firefighting foam and related equipment.

Why is this important

PFAS chemicals accumulate in human bodies and the environment, with documented links to health problems including liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune system suppression. Fire departments are a major exposure source since PFAS-laden aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) have been used for decades in firefighting training and emergency response, contaminating groundwater and soil around firehouses and training facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill requires identifying and appropriating state funds for grants; opponents may argue this diverts resources from other priorities or question whether local municipalities should bear cleanup costs
  • Scope limitations: The bill focuses only on fire apparatus; critics may note this addresses only one piece of PFAS contamination while broader environmental remediation needs remain unfunded
  • Liability questions: Unclear whether the grant program absolves equipment manufacturers or foam suppliers of responsibility, potentially shifting public health costs to taxpayers rather than polluters

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

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