Portland Council Funds PFAS-Free Gear for Firefighters

The city established a dedicated sub-fund to replace turnout gear with safer, PFAS-free alternatives as they become available.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Safety

Isometric editorial illustration of a set of heavy firefighter turnout gear on a concrete floor, representing public health policy. — The Portland City Council has authorized a dedicated PFAS Replacement Sub-Fund to transition the city's firefighting equipment to safer, PFAS-free alternatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your local government prioritize funding the replacement of protective gear containing toxic chemicals?

The Portland City Council has officially authorized funding for the purchase of PFAS-free turnout gear for Portland Fire and Rescue. This move creates a dedicated sub-fund to support the transition as safer equipment enters the market.

Why it matters

PFAS are classified as carcinogens and present significant, long-term health risks to firefighters exposed to them in their gear. This proactive funding measure aims to protect personnel by facilitating the transition to safer alternatives.

The city is monitoring the availability of PFAS-free gear following the passing of Oregon Senate Bill 91, which previously banned PFAS in firefighting foams. The Fire Bureau is mandated to report on market readiness to the City Administrator.

The players

Portland City Council

This is the legislative body responsible for governing the City of Portland and managing its municipal budget and policy decisions.

Portland Fire and Rescue

This department serves as the primary provider of emergency fire and rescue services for the Portland metropolitan area.

The details

The newly created PFAS Replacement Sub-Fund will be financed through redirected underspending from the General Fund. This initiative builds on previous efforts by the city, which already phased out the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam.

Portland City Council passed the resolution on October 28, 2026.

Seasonal Patterns

This policy follows the precedent set by Oregon Senate Bill 91, which banned PFAS in fire foams, by expanding that regulatory approach to protective equipment. It reflects a broader movement to eliminate persistent chemical risks in public safety gear.

While this resolution provides long-term safety for fire crews, residents should remain aware that the city is currently in a monitoring phase for equipment availability. Updates regarding procurement timelines will be managed through the City Administrator's office.

The takeaway

This measure highlights the ongoing effort by local governments to mitigate occupational hazards through targeted fiscal planning. It underscores the importance of municipal agencies adapting to updated scientific classifications regarding chemical safety.