The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 contains several provisions to benefit IAFF members, including addressing toxic chemicals in turnout gear and improving the work schedule for many 16th District members. The IAFF worked closely with congressional allies throughout the year to ensure fire fighter priorities were included in the final bill.
The NDAA includes provisions to reduce fire fighters’ exposure to the toxic chemical PFAS, known to be present in firefighting foam and turnout gear. Most significantly, the bill directs the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST) to quantify the exact amount of PFAS present in turnout gear and determine the health dangers associated with the chemical’s use.
