Press Releases

Washington, D.C. - 1/24/2025… Today, during Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) announced the introduction of a bipartisan bill to establish a compensation fund for military firefighters exposed to PFAS.

“The exposure of military firefighters to toxic PFAS chemicals is a crisis we cannot ignore,” said Rep. Lawler (NY-17). “Their service has left far too many battling devastating health conditions, including cancer. This issue hits New Yorkers especially close to home, as our state has seen firsthand the harmful impacts of PFAS contamination. 

“I’m proud to co-lead the Compensation Fund for Military Firefighters Exposed to PFAS Act to ensure these heroes receive the justice and support they deserve for their sacrifices on our nation’s behalf,” concluded Rep. Lawler (NY-17). 

“Military firefighters are directly exposed to PFAS chemicals while on the job,” said Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10). “They deserve compensation, especially for their work-related illnesses.”

“For decades, the Defense Department was fully aware that AFFF, loaded with toxic PFAS, posed serious health risks and yet it failed to take meaningful action to protect those most at risk,” said Jessica Hernandez, a policy director at the Environmental Working Group. “Military firefighters have been on the front lines, courageously safeguarding lives and ensuring military readiness, all while being exposed to hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ linked to devastating, lifelong health conditions like cancer. The Compensation Fund for Military Firefighters Exposed to PFAS Act is a crucial step toward rectifying this injustice. These brave individuals deserve more than our gratitude, they deserve accountability and compensation for the health harms caused by their service. We strongly applaud this effort and urge lawmakers to support this bill.” 

"Military firefighters play a vital role in safeguarding our service members, their families, and our nation's security. Yet, in the course of their critical duties, they face unnecessary exposure to toxic PFAS-laden firefighting foams, putting them at heightened risk for cancer and other serious health conditions,” said General President Edward A. Kelly of the International Association of Firefighters. “The establishment of the Military Firefighters Compensation Fund is an important way our nation can support these brave fire fighters as they confront lifelong medical challenges. The IAFF is proud to endorse this bill, and we thank Rep. Marilyn Strickland, Rep. Mike Lawler, and former Rep. Bill Posey for championing this essential legislation.”