NJ A5537

Extends the deadline for fire departments to stop using Class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) until January 1, 2027, providing a one-year grace period after the general prohibition takes effect

The general prohibition on the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of PFAS-containing Class B firefighting foam began two years after the enactment of P.L.2023, c.243 (effective January 2026)

Exemptions continue for federally required uses (such as FAA airport regulations), fixed foam fire suppression systems with containment (four years), and oil refineries/petroleum terminals (eight years with possible waiver extensions)

Removes a previously proposed $500,000 General Fund appropriation that would have provided additional grants to municipalities for replacing PFAS-containing firefighting foam with compliant alternatives

Violations of the PFAS firefighting foam restrictions remain subject to penalties under the Consumer Fraud Act (P.L.1960, c.39)