IAFF Sets Top Legislative Priorities for the 119th Congress
As the 119th Congress begins its new legislative session, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is prioritizing critical bills that will impact fire fighters, emergency medical workers, and their families. With the 2025 Alfred K. Whitehead Legislative Conference set to take place in Washington, D.C., IAFF members are mobilizing to push for key legislative victories that will protect fire fighters' rights, health, and safety.
The IAFF has a history of legislative success, including recent wins like the Social Security Fairness Act and the Fire Grants and Safety Act. Now, with a new Congress in place, the union is focused on advancing the following priorities:
Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1269 / S. 237)
This bipartisan bill ensures that fire fighter cancer deaths are recognized as line-of-duty deaths under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program, extending death, educational, and other benefits to surviving family members. Sponsored by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Reps. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) and Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), this legislation seeks to honor and support the families of fire fighters who succumb to occupational cancer.
Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act (H.R. 1443)
Fire fighters should not face disciplinary action for voicing concerns about staffing, equipment, or workplace safety. This bipartisan bill, sponsored by Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) and Reps. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Steve Cohen (D-TN), reaffirms fire fighters' First Amendment rights, ensuring they can express job-related concerns without fear of retaliation.
PFAS Alternatives Act (Pending Reintroduction)
Fire fighters face daily exposure to hazardous chemicals, including PFAS in their protective gear. Sponsored by Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Sam Graves (R-MO), this legislation would secure funding for the development of safer, PFAS-free protective gear, reducing the risk of occupational cancer among fire fighters.
Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act (Pending Reintroduction)
Union rights are essential to fire fighter safety. This bipartisan bill, sponsored by Reps. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) and Pete Stauber (R-MI), along with Sens. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), aims to protect fire fighters' collective bargaining rights, ensuring fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.
9/11 Responders and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act (H.R. 1410)
The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) provides essential health benefits to 9/11 first responders and survivors, but its funding is set to run out by 2029. This legislation, backed by Reps. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) and Jerry Nadler (D-NY), along with Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), seeks to extend WTCHP funding through 2090, ensuring continued support for those affected by 9/11-related illnesses.
Wildfire Preparedness and Response Act (Pending Introduction)
Wildfires are becoming an increasing threat across the U.S., and fire fighters need better resources to combat them. Sponsored by Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA) and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM), this bill focuses on improving fire fighter training, equipment, and coordination between local, state, and federal agencies to enhance wildfire response efforts.
Federal Firefighters Families First Act (H.R. 759)
Federal fire fighters work grueling 72-hour weeks, affecting their health and family life. This bipartisan bill, sponsored by Reps. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), seeks to cap federal fire fighter workweeks at 60 hours and include full overtime earnings in their retirement calculations.
These legislative priorities reflect the IAFF’s ongoing commitment to protecting fire fighters' rights, improving their working conditions, and ensuring they receive the recognition and benefits they deserve.
At UnionFireStore.com, we stand in solidarity with the IAFF’s mission to advocate for fire fighter safety and support. Stay informed on the latest fire fighter news, gear, and legislation updates by following our blog.
For more information, visit Union Fire Store and join us in supporting fire fighters nationwide!
Breaking News: AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Settlement Updates – March 2025
I know most of you are sick of hearing about this lawsuit on your TV, on your phone, or other device….but….Firefighters, military personnel, and others exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) continue to push forward in the AFFF MDL (Multidistrict Litigation), seeking justice and compensation for serious health conditions linked to PFAS chemicals. One of the key injuries in this lawsuit is ulcerative colitis (a condition that I have, hence the focus), a painful and debilitating autoimmune disease. If you or a loved one have been affected, here's the latest on the settlement progress, expected payouts, and what to watch for in the coming months.
Note: A lot of folks out there think this is somehow a scam, or you will only get pennies like most (class actions) this is not one of them. This is a serious payout and you don’t have to pay a cent for it, a law office will represent you (you choose what one) and they take the industry standard of 40% you keep 60% of the final TAX FREE settlement amount. and NO 'I’m not writing this as an advertisement getting a kickback or anything of the sort.
AFFF Lawsuit: Where Do We Stand?
The AFFF MDL (MDL No. 2873) is being overseen by Judge Richard Gergel in the U.S. District Court for South Carolina. The litigation, which has been ongoing since 2018, is now heavily focused on personal injury claims following a $10.3 billion settlement reached in 2023 for water contamination cases.
As of March 2025, there are over 8,400 personal injury cases pending in the MDL, with more being filed each month. Legal experts believe we are approaching a major settlement phase, with key developments indicating that 2025 could be the year a compensation program is announced.
Ulcerative Colitis: A Tier 1 Injury in the AFFF Lawsuit
The court has classified injuries into tiers, with Tier 1 covering the most serious and scientifically supported conditions. Ulcerative colitis has been grouped alongside kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and thyroid disease as one of the core conditions linked to PFAS exposure.
This means ulcerative colitis victims are expected to receive top-tier compensation, similar to those suffering from severe cancers.
How Much Will the Settlements Be?
While no final settlement numbers have been confirmed, legal analysts estimate that Tier 1 injuries like ulcerative colitis could receive payouts ranging from:
$300,000 – $600,000 per claim
Some severe cases with long-term complications could reach $1 million
Lower-tier claims (weaker exposure history or less severe symptoms) may settle for $150,000 – $300,000
These estimates are based on similar PFAS settlements, including the $670 million DuPont PFOA settlement in 2017, where ulcerative colitis claims averaged $191,000 per plaintiff.
When Will the Settlement Happen?
The timeline for an AFFF settlement is accelerating due to several factors:
Bellwether Trials Scheduled for October 2025: These test cases often force companies to negotiate settlements rather than risk massive jury verdicts.
Recent Surge in Case Filings: February 2025 saw 338 new cases added to the MDL, signaling that attorneys expect settlement talks soon.
Legal Experts Predict a Settlement in Mid-2025: Attorneys involved in the case anticipate a global resolution within the next 2–4 months.
What Should You Do Now?
If you have ulcerative colitis and believe AFFF exposure is responsible, you may still have time to file a claim. Once a settlement is announced, there will likely be a deadline to register your case.
📌 Take Action Now:
Consult with a firefighter injury attorney who specializes in AFFF claims.
Gather medical records proving your diagnosis and history of PFAS exposure.
Stay informed as settlement discussions unfold.
At Union Fire Store, we stand with firefighters, military personnel, and first responders affected by toxic exposure. Follow us for ongoing updates as this lawsuit progresses.
🔥 Stay tuned for more breaking news! 🔥
AFFF Exposure & Firefighter Cancer Lawsuits: Your Legal Rights Explained
Title: AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits: What Firefighters Need to Know
Introduction Firefighters across the nation are filing lawsuits over exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam commonly used for suppressing flammable liquid fires. If you or someone you know has been affected by AFFF, it’s crucial to understand the risks, legal options, and how you can seek justice.
What is AFFF? AFFF is a firefighting foam designed to quickly smother high-intensity fires, particularly those involving fuel and other flammable liquids. It has been widely used by fire departments, military bases, and airports for decades. However, AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been linked to serious health concerns, including cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Health Risks Associated with AFFF Exposure Studies have shown that PFAS chemicals do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, leading to long-term exposure risks. Firefighters and other emergency personnel who have come into contact with AFFF may be at an increased risk for:
Kidney and testicular cancer
Liver damage
Immune system disorders
Thyroid disease
Reproductive issues
AFFF Lawsuits: Seeking Justice for Exposure Firefighters, military personnel, and others who have been exposed to AFFF and subsequently diagnosed with related health conditions are now filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of these foams. These lawsuits claim that the companies knowingly produced and distributed AFFF despite being aware of the health hazards associated with PFAS exposure.
Who Can File an AFFF Lawsuit? You may be eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit if:
You worked as a firefighter, military personnel, or in an industry that regularly used AFFF.
You were exposed to AFFF over an extended period.
You have been diagnosed with a health condition linked to PFAS exposure.
Compensation for AFFF Victims Firefighters and others affected by AFFF exposure may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses (current and future treatments)
Lost wages and earning potential
Pain and suffering
Wrongful death (for families of deceased victims)
How to Take Legal Action If you believe you have been affected by AFFF exposure, it is crucial to seek legal representation. Many law firms specialize in AFFF-related lawsuits and offer free consultations to evaluate your case. Legal action can help hold manufacturers accountable and secure the financial assistance you need for medical treatment and other losses.
Stay Informed and Protect Your Rights As awareness of AFFF dangers grows, it’s essential to stay informed and take action to protect yourself and fellow firefighters. If you suspect exposure to AFFF has impacted your health, consulting with an attorney experienced in PFAS litigation is a vital step toward justice.
For more information on firefighter safety, protective gear, and legal updates, visit Union Fire Store. We’re committed to supporting firefighters and ensuring they have access to the resources they need.
IAFF NEWS
In recent years, the firefighting industry has witnessed significant technological advancements aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency. One notable innovation is the deployment of AI-powered cameras for early wildfire detection. In California, a network of over 1,140 cameras has been instrumental in identifying fires promptly, allowing for rapid response and containment.
Robotics is also playing a crucial role in modern firefighting. The United Kingdom has introduced a new firefighting robot capable of spraying water and withstanding extreme heat, enabling it to operate in conditions too hazardous for human firefighters.
Additionally, the integration of thermal imaging cameras into firefighting equipment has become more prevalent. These devices allow firefighters to see through smoke and darkness, quickly locating hotspots and victims, thereby improving operational effectiveness.
These technological advancements are transforming firefighting strategies, making operations safer and more effective.
Recent Innovations in Firefighting Technology
UK's new firefighting robot sprays water, withstands extreme heat and more
AI cameras are watching the California hills to detect the spread of wildfires
AI-Powered Cameras on Guard: Detecting Wildfires Before They Spread in California
In recent years, the firefighting industry has witnessed significant technological advancements aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency. One notable innovation is the deployment of AI-powered cameras for early wildfire detection. In California, a network of over 1,140 cameras has been instrumental in identifying fires promptly, allowing for rapid response and containment.
Robotics is also playing a crucial role in modern firefighting. The United Kingdom has introduced a new firefighting robot capable of spraying water and withstanding extreme heat, enabling it to operate in conditions too hazardous for human firefighters.
Additionally, the integration of thermal imaging cameras into firefighting equipment has become more prevalent. These devices allow firefighters to see through smoke and darkness, quickly locating hotspots and victims, thereby improving operational effectiveness.
These technological advancements are transforming firefighting strategies, making operations safer and more effective.
Recent Innovations in Firefighting Technology
UK's new firefighting robot sprays water, withstands extreme heat and more
AI cameras are watching the California hills to detect the spread of wildfires