Firefighter attorney Brent Eames is experienced in representing injured firefighters and EMTs across the state in work-related claims. We will continue to track important legislation from Springfield and beyond.
The turnout gear of fighters are made with chemicals which are primarily meant to repel water and contaminants. The chemicals include perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are known as PFAS. These are generally referred to as “forever chemicals” because of how long they stay in the environment. Studies have linked these forever chemicals to a variety of health problems, including cancers and cardiovascular disease.
On August 15, 2025, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed H.B. 2409, into law, which prohibits the sale of turnout gear with intentionally added PFAS to fire departments beginning January 1, 2027. The new Illinois law also requires all manufacturers to provide written notice of any turnout gear containing intentionally added PFAS starting in 2026.
Given the high association of firefighters and cancer, these PFAS have been scrutinized as a possible cause of the well-documented link between firefighters and the development of certain kinds of cancers. Research remains ongoing, but this legislation represents an important step in confirming an active attempt to address this issue.
Section 6(f) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act is intended to provide some special and unique benefits for firefighters and EMTs who suffer from cancer diagnoses, as well as certain other injuries and illnesses. Unfortunately, ambiguity in the language of the statute has resulted in the Illinois courts negating any real benefit for first responders and has essentially defeated the intended presumption which was provided in the law.
Take Action: Contact An Illinois Firefighter Injury Attorney
At Eames Law Group, we feel honored to serve the firefighters who serve us. Please schedule a free initial consultation today to learn more about how we can help you get your benefits. To reach us, call 312-971-3404 or send us an email.
