The Michigan House of Representatives this week approved a plan sponsored by Rep. Sue Allor that would improve safety protocols for the handling of AFFF firefighting foam, a known source of PFAS contamination.

“With the state budget complete, the Legislature continues to press on and tackle the pressing policy matters facing Michigan families,” Allor said. “This legislation is one important piece of a network of policies and efforts to control the spread of PFAS contamination. This plan treats the use of AFFF just as any other known contaminant by creating a uniform reporting structure to proper authorities.”

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines continue to require the use of AFFF at airports to suppress jet fuel fires. While the foam is no longer used for training purposes, an effective replacement for the PFAS-containing AFFF has not be found. In addition, some fire departments still possess and use types of foam containing PFAS for combating fuel fires.

Allor’s plan would ensure uniform and detailed documentation on AFFF discharges is shared with the Department of the Environmental, Great Lakes and Energy (DEGLE).

This documentation would trigger protocols within DEGLE to monitor the site for potential hazards to the environment.

Specifically, the plan requires departments to report the following to EGLE within 48 hours of use:

• The purpose for which the foam was used;
• The specific location it was used;
• The quantity of concentrate and water used;
• If foam or firewater entered a drain, storm sewer or combined sewer, to provide the distance and direction of the point of entry where the foam was used;
• Practices used for proper cleanup and disposal.

“Our state continues to pioneer the means for tracking, containing and managing PFAS contamination,” Allor said. “AFFF has largely been taken out of use by our fire departments, but while the technology catches up creating a safe alternative, this plan puts common sense safeguards in place.”

The proposal, House Bill 4389, moves to the Senate for consideration.

###