SPRINGFIELD — To protect first responders, State Senator Ram Villivalam and Representative Mike Kelly championed a law to ban the use of toxic chemicals, known as PFAS, in firefighter clothing and equipment.

“We critically depend on our firefighters to support our communities through devastation and disaster. Meanwhile, the currently use clothing and equipment that causes adverse health effects,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “By banning out the use of these chemicals in their gear, we are further ensuring their safety while they are working to protect us.”

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances have been used in both protective clothing and equipment for their ability to repel water, oil and dirt and provide thermal stability and durability. Recent studies show that the use of PFAS in clothing and equipment has adverse health effects, including increased risks of cancer.

The new law addresses the potential adverse health effects caused by PFAS by phasing out the sale of firefighting personal protective clothing and equipment containing these chemicals. To achieve this, the law requires the mandatory disclosure of firefighting protective clothing containing PFAS beginning Jan. 1, 2026, progressing to a ban on the use of PFAS in clothing in 2027, then transitioning to a ban on the use of PFAS in both clothing and equipment in 2030.

“Firefighters risk everything to keep their communities safe and to save lives and property, but recent studies show that the risks have been even more serious than we knew,” Kelly (D-Chicago) said. “PFAS chemicals cause illness and have led to preventable, early deaths. It’s unacceptable for our firefighters to be harmed by the very equipment designed to protect them. That’s why I’m taking action.”

“With leadership from Senator Villivalam, House Bill 2409 will help protect fire fighters for decades to come,” said Steve Shetsky, AFFI Northern District Legislative Representative.

House Bill 2409 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.