New York City bill aims to ban toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in firefighting gear

The GuardianTuesday, December 2, 2025 at 1:00:32 PM
New York City bill aims to ban toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in firefighting gear
  • A new bill proposed in the New York City council aims to ban the use of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (Pfas), commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' in the protective gear worn by the city’s firefighters. This legislation, if approved, would impact the nation’s largest firefighting force, comprising 11,000 members.
  • The approval of this bill would represent a significant victory for advocates seeking safer alternatives to traditional firefighting gear, aligning New York City with states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, which have already enacted similar bans.
  • The ongoing concerns surrounding Pfas highlight a broader public health issue, as these chemicals have been linked to various health risks. Recent findings in Maine, where Pfas contamination has led to advisories against consuming wild turkeys, underscore the urgent need for regulatory measures to protect both environmental and human health.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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