Montana's House Bill 290, introduced on January 31, 2025, aims to regulate the use of class B firefighting foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." This legislation responds to growing concerns about the environmental and health impacts of PFAS, which have been linked to serious health issues and contamination of water sources.

The bill mandates that any terminal operator intending to purchase firefighting foam with intentionally added PFAS must file an annual notice with the state fire marshal starting January 1, 2028. This notice must include evidence that no commercially available alternatives exist that can effectively suppress large atmospheric tank fires without PFAS. Additionally, operators must report the amount of PFAS foam stored and used, outline their progress toward transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives, and detail containment measures to prevent environmental release.

Key debates surrounding House Bill 290 focus on the balance between effective firefighting capabilities and environmental protection. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward reducing PFAS contamination, while opponents raise concerns about the availability of effective alternatives and the potential impact on emergency response capabilities.

The implications of this legislation are significant. If passed, it could lead to a shift in firefighting practices across Montana, pushing for safer alternatives and stricter environmental protections. Experts suggest that this bill could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar PFAS-related issues, potentially influencing national standards for firefighting foam.

As the legislative process unfolds, the community will be watching closely to see how this bill addresses both public safety and environmental health, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable practices in emergency response.