By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• A new Wisconsin law is enabling fire departments in the state to purchase soy-based, PFAS-free firefighting foam.
• The legislation aims to reduce environmental and health risks associated with traditional fluorinated foams.
• Departments will receive support and guidance to transition to the new foam.
• Officials said the change aligns with growing national efforts to limit per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure.
WISCONSIN — A recently enacted Wisconsin law is helping fire departments in the state transition to purchasing soy-based, PFAS-free firefighting foam, officials said.
The legislation, signed by state leadership, allows departments to secure funding and procurement flexibility to adopt fluorine-free foam alternatives designed to reduce potential environmental and health impacts linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in traditional firefighting foams.
State fire officials said the law provides guidance and financial resources that will assist local fire agencies in acquiring the new soy-based foam and implementing its use according to updated safety standards.
The change comes amid broader national attention on limiting PFAS exposure and promoting environmentally safer fire suppression agents, and Wisconsin fire chiefs and legislators described the law as a proactive step toward protecting both responders and communities.