Eligibility explained: Firefighter PFAS Compensation Act

PFAS refers to a group of synthetic chemicals used for various purposes, including the manufacturing of AFFF. For years, firefighters relied on AFFF for its effectiveness in suppressing highly flammable fuel flames. However, these PFAS-containing firefighting foams do more damage than good.

Over the years, scientific studies have found evidence suggesting a connection between PFAS exposure and increased risks of developing severe health conditions. These include certain types of cancers, such as:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Male breast cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Firefighter PFAS Compensation Act: Key eligibility rules

To ensure that financial assistance is granted to deserving firefighters, the authors behind the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act have established clear guidelines for who can apply. The bill states that only the following may be qualified to receive compensation.

• Firefighters in an active firefighting role, which includes civilian, military, and volunteer firefighters, either in full or part-time capacity. Firefighters tasked to carry out the training exercise are also eligible.
• Firefighters have served for at least two years in an active firefighting role.
• Chiefs, inspectors, mechanics, dispatchers, or medics who never actively fought fires do not qualify, unless they previously spent at least 2 years doing active firefighting.
• Firefighters diagnosed with PFAS-linked cancer should be supported by medical evidence.
• Firefighters eligible to receive compensation should be diagnosed with a PFAS-linked cancer during or after their service.
• Family members of deceased firefighters who meet the aforementioned criteria.

Compensation options for eligible firefighters

The Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act not only recognizes the risks firefighters face in the line of duty but also aims to provide meaningful financial and medical support. It can help them and their families by:

• Covering medical costs and expenses
• Compensate lost wages
• Disability support
• Recover damages for emotional suffering
• Recover damages for wrongful death

Let ELG help you in filing toxic exposure claims

If you or someone you know has worked as a firefighter, active or retired, and you plan to file claims for AFFF exposure, we can provide the support you need. For over 35 years, our legal team has assisted countless victims of toxic exposure, including many firefighters. Contact us today to know how you can get started.