This bill creates grant programs at the Department of Health and Human Services, through NIOSH, to support research, development, and testing of PFAS-free turnout gear and related materials for firefighters. Eligible entities include certain nonprofits, colleges, and national fire service or safety organizations with relevant experience. Grants must support PFAS-free components, require partnerships with firefighting organizations, and may fund innovations such as better protection from particulates, easier cleaning or contamination resistance, and design that considers body composition. The bill also funds training and guidance grants beginning in fiscal year 2027 to teach safe use, cleaning, and care of new turnout gear. The Secretary must report to Congress on progress within two years.
Supporters say the bill will drive innovation to make next-generation, PFAS-free turnout gear and reduce occupational illness and injury among firefighters. The bill emphasizes partnerships with firefighting organizations to move research into practice, and it highlights possible improvements such as better protection from particulates and byproducts of combustion, reduced maintenance and easier cleaning, visible warning indicators, and design considerations for different body compositions.
No publicly available information.