The Oregon House voted to pass Senate Bill 91, which prohibits the use of firefighting foam that intentionally contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by fire departments except where required by federal law.

Sponsors framed the bill as a public health and environmental protection measure, saying PFAS are persistent chemicals linked in studies to illnesses including certain cancers and immune effects. Supporters noted many fire departments and the military already use PFAS-free alternatives.

"This measure defines PFAS firefighting foam as a foam substance that contains intentionally added perfluoroalkyl or perfluoroalkyl substances," Representative Neron told colleagues, urging lawmakers to "lead with science and common sense" and "take the step toward a healthier, safer Oregon." She said the bill includes exemptions to comply with Federal Aviation Administration or other federal requirements.

During floor debate, Representative Owens said she supported moving away from PFAS but warned about potential supply issues, noting she had not confirmed manufacturers would have non-PFAS alternatives available on the bill's timeline. "I have a little hesitant to voting yes on this," she said, citing concerns about manufacturing capacity and stocks for fire response.

Representative Deel expressed a similar caution, saying the transition "is inevitable" but warning Oregon should not "get ahead of the technology" for specific fuel fires where foam effectiveness matters. Representative Graeber countered that plentiful PFAS-free alternatives have been in use since the mid-2000s and many departments already transitioned.

The clerk declared Senate Bill 91 passed after the vote, the clerk noting the bill "received the constitutional majority." The bill provides limited exemptions for federally required uses and leaves implementation details to the responsible agencies and departments.