SB0561 - PFAS Reduction Act

• Beginning January 1, 2022, persons, local governments, fire departments, and state agencies cannot use Class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS for training or testing purposes unless the facility has proper containment, treatment, and disposal measures, provides employee training, and complies with notification requirements.

• Starting January 1, 2025, manufacturers cannot knowingly manufacture, sell, or distribute Class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS in Illinois, with a possible extension to January 1, 2027 for certain industrial facilities with fixed foam systems.

• Exemptions apply to foam required or authorized under federal law (including 14 CFR 139.317 for aircraft hangars and NFPA 409), military purposes, and emergency use by fire departments responding to actual incidents.

• Manufacturers must notify fire departments prior to foam purchase that products contain PFAS and that use is regulated; persons discharging PFAS-containing foam must notify Illinois Emergency Management Agency within 48 hours with details on the amount, location, and containment measures.

• Improper disposal of PFAS-containing foam includes discharging into ditches, waterways, storm drains, or sanitary sewers; foam must be disposed within 90 days of manufacturer's expiration date; manufacturers violating the act face civil penalties up to $5,000 for first violation and $10,000 for subsequent violations.