TIMELINE for PFOS and PFOS perfluorinated chemicals
Compiled by FAN's Pesticide Project :
http://www.fluoridealert.org/wp-content/pesticides/effect.pfos.class.timeline.htm
Chronology of Events in ARTICLES:
2006 DuPont Comments Response to Petition to Expedite Consideration of PFOA under Proposition 65 Stanley W. Landfair November 16, 2006 https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/proposition-65/presentation/pfoapresentationall121206.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1MSIp0V6hUrYFv3Y8MRjVyscyPw7EH5RggKcTVNhLc-4nyVwsOT7-jBD8
2015
FOX BIOMONITORING STUDY : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4274322/
Industrial Fire Journal, “Six Year PFOA Reprieve for Firefighters’ Protective Clothing” https://cswab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Industrial-Fire-Journal-Six-year-PFOA-Reprieve-for-Gear-2015.pdf thank you CSWAB.
2016
In 2016, the AFFF issue was not even on my radar. We were so far removed from it. I didn’t want to touch it. The PPE issue was more than I could handle. I would soon learn that the two were inseparable. They morphed together just by the nature that firefighters use AFFF and wear PPE. This is the story of Michael Strouss, of Wright Patterson AFB. He would be permanently injured by AFFF. His Local 88 President Brian Grubb would then go on to fight for recognition and awareness for FFs for PFAS exposure. In 2019 Local 88 President Brian Grubb would successfully accomplish the difficult task of securing PFAS serum testing for his Local.
………. searching for answers… 1600 ? attempts to contact fire service leaders, locals, ff cancer support groups, nfpa, chiefs, iaff leaders, politicians, etc., so few replies.. no one knew anything… Finally after harassing Jon Marr , Editor of Station Pride https://station-pride.com/ , sending him a ridiculously long article I had written and his own research to verify my claims, he agreed to publish this first article. ‘Were it not for Jon Marr and his bravery to step into the abyss with me I might still be swinging punches in thin air…’ dc
2017
3.28.2017 Station Pride, “The Real Cancer in Your Gear” https://station-pride.com/2017/03/28/the-real-cancer-in-your-gear/
5.1.2017 IAFF Statement on PFOA and Turnout Gear https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/fbe7dd_cc4b2d5a744b4b1f8ca967ab94a64978.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0VaNvoMuXM36B7q-6Mz_TrhCEtA3gzvSJCb82RDAGTJOHdz2qAiqydDKc
3.23.2017 milliken The Truth about Cancer Hazards and Turnout Gear
https://textiles.milliken.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/milliken-resq-the-truth-about-cancer-hazards-and-turnout-gear-v4.pdf?sfvrsn=97ae1ceb_0
9.5.2017 Environmental Attorney Bilott sends 195 page letter to EPA, CDC/ATSDR, US Attorney General (then) Jeff Sessions. He, along with Fire Chief Jeffrey Hermes, and C8 Science Panel member Dr Paul Brooks, are demanding ‘PFAS testing and studies for first responders’ due to your occupational exposure of AFFF and PPE. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/3988104-Firefighter-Letter.html
9.7.2017 Station Pride, “Fire Gear and PFOA-The Data” https://station-pride.com/2017/09/07/fire-gear-pfoa-the-data-the-real-cancer-in-your-gear-follow-up/
10.2.2017 NH DES Recommends Sampling of Drinking Water Wells at all Fire Stations: https://www4.des.state.nh.us/nh-pfas-investigation/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Fire_Department_H20Sample.pdf
10.7.2017 Fire commander Mick Tisbury believes blood of majority of firefighters is contaminated with probable carcinogens https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/oct/10/foam-contamination-firefighters-must-have-blood-tests-says-commander
10.9.2017 Fire Apparatus Magazine “Setting The Record Straight” https://www.fireapparatusmagazine.com/articles/print/volume-22/issue-10/departments/keeping-it-safe/setting-the-record-straight.html
10.29.17 Columbus Dispatch, “FireFighters Gear May Be Hazardous” https://www.dispatch.com/news/20171029/firefighters-gear-may-be-hazardous
10.31.2017 FireRescue1, “PPE Manufacturer Refutes ‘False’ Claims About Turnout Gear Hazards” https://www.firerescue1.com/cancer/articles/349394018-PPE-manufacturer-refutes-false-claims-about-turnout-gear-hazards/
11.8.2017 FireRescue1, “Fireground environment, not turnout gear, provides carcinogen exposure risk” https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-products/Personal-protective-equipment-ppe/articles/359873018-Fireground-environment-not-turnout-gear-provides-carcinogen-exposure-risk/
11.7.2017 Carolina Fire Journal, “The Truth About Cancer Hazards and Turnout Gear” https://www.carolinafirejournal.com/Articles/Article-Detail/ArticleId/6639/The-Truth-About-Cancer-Hazards-and-Turnout-Gear
2018
Petition: (not sure of the date we began the petition) We are asking that the fire service be included in the CDC/ATSDR Pease AFB PFAS Study. Currently we have over 8,700 signatures. https://www.change.org/p/cdc-has-omitted-the-fire-service-from-the-first-national-pfas-study-this-study-was-to-include-first-responders-yet-miraculously-in-august-of-2018-the-fire-service-was-omitted-from-the-study-why-because-firefighters-are-occupationally-exposed?fbclid=IwAR07gQUfK_SWfmXE5H-V_8N8hZp4QBEm-kFFDWO0WuBAnBz8NmJXucuyqpA
1.16.2018 “Washington State Council of Firefighters and Toxic Free Future Collaborate to File Fist in the Nation PFAS Legislation” https://toxicfreefuture.org/safer-firefighting-foam-gear-drinking-water/
1.29.2018 Station Pride, “PFAS/PFOA Update: Conference Call With IAFF” https://station-pride.com/2018/01/29/pfas-pfoa-update-conference-call-with-iaff/
2.18.18 Station Pride, “Fire Gear Laboratory Test Results” https://station-pride.com/2018/02/18/fire-gear-laboratory-test-results/
MARCH 2018. Diane writes TIA to NFPA to remove all PFAS from PPE. TIA is NOT ACCEPTED.
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/fm124lq0wax0fnvutnrkm/NEW-PROJECT-INITIATION-3.18.docx?dl=0&rlkey=nb2mjnqk8ow5cth58b7rcj0jd
5.12.2018 Jeff Hirsch - WKRC “Cancer concerns from first responders” https://local12.com/news/local/cancer-concerns-from-our-first-responders
5.18.2018 Robert Bilott - Interview with Amy Goodman of Democracy Now with transcript: Trump’s EPA Doesn’t Want You to Know Chemicals in Teflon Are Poisoning Waterways & Firefighters https://www.democracynow.org/2018/5/18/trumps_epa_doesnt_want_you_to
6.1.2018 PFFM votes unanimously to make PFAS legislation a priority.
6.1.2018 IAFF Statment on PFOA and Turnout Gear June, 2018 https://www.firerescuemagazine.com/content/dam/fire-rescue/downloads/PFOA%20Turn-Out%20Gear%20Fact%20Sheet%20FINAL%202018%20June.pdf
6.4.2018 Mindi Messmer - Firefighter Nation - “Firefighter Cancer Quadfecta” https://www.firefighternation.com/articles/2018/06/firefighter-cancer-quadfecta.html
6.25.2018 Diane Cotter - Exeter NH, EPA PFAS Community Engagement Agenda hosts, Testing for Pease and Toxics Action Center 43 minute mark:
7.25.2018 Response from NIOSH regarding my concerns of First Responder PFAS exposure and lack of PFAS plan/guidance/oversight https://medium.com/@dianecotter/7-25-18-reply-of-commander-kenney-fent-of-the-cdc-niosh-with-my-response-of-7-26-18-below-6b8e315f3cf6
8.22.2018 Warren Files Amendments Supporting Massachusetts Firefighters, Police Officers, and First Responders - Amendments Would Fund Study of Health Effects of PFAS Exposure in Firefighters & Include Police Officers, Other First Responders in Cancer Registry https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-files-amendments-supporting-massachusetts-firefighters-police-officers-and-first-responders?fbclid=IwAR3Yq_60jqy1yM7y-HAZYPPzi4Dh8tZZDY3r6ohFTey1astQnQf3sselk1g
9.12.2018 Environmental Attorney Robert Bilott sends 47 page letter to CDC/ATSDR challenging their reasoning for ‘omitting’ the occupationally exposed fire service from $100,000,000.xx first in the nation PFAS Study.
9.24.2018 Karen Hensel - NBC Boston Investigates, “Chemical In Firefighter Turnout Gear Eyed As A Potential Cancer Agent”
https://www.nbcboston.com/investigations/Chemical-in-Firefighter-Turnout-Gear-Eyed-As-Potential-Cancer-Agent-494194661.html
9.24.2018 Notre Dame News “Researchers study presence of fluorinated chemicals in firefighter clothing” https://news.nd.edu/news/researchers-study-presence-of-fluorinated-chemicals-in-firefighter-clothing/
9.26.2018 IAFF Statement of LIEUTENANT TIMOTHY PUTNAM VICE-PRESIDENT, TIDEWATER FEDERAL FIRE FIGHTERS before the SUBCOMMITTEE ON FEDERAL SPENDING OVERSIGHT & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT UNITED STATES SENATE On THE FEDERAL ROLE IN THE TOXIC PFAS CHEMICAL CRISIS https://www.hsgac.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Putnam%20Testimony.pdf
9.27.2018 Karen Hensel - NBC Boston “NH Senators Call for Replacing Firefighter Gear with Potentially Carcinogenic Chemicals” https://www.necn.com/news/new-england/Senators-Call-for-Firefighter-Gear-with-Potentially-Carcinogenic-Chemicals-to-be-Replaced-494559641.html
9.26.2018 IAFF ‘S Larry Petrick Outlines PFAS Plan: https://www.facebook.com/notes/your-turnout-gear-and-pfoa/iaff-outlines-its-pfas-plan/2167621363561935/?__tn__=HH-R
10.2.2018 Eric Lamar : Turn Out Blog Schaitberger, Safety and Moral Obligation http://www.turnoutblog.com/2018/10/02/schaitberger-safety-and-moral-obligation/#gref
10.6.2018 Rob Bilott files “NATIONWIDE CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT TARGETS DUPONT, CHEMOURS, 3M, AND OTHER MAKERS OF PFAS CHEMICALS” by Sharon Lerner The Intercept https://theintercept.com/2018/10/06/dupont-pfas-chemicals-lawsuit/
10.20.2018 Cheryl Hogue - Chemical and Engineering News, “U.S. class-action case targets nine PFAS makers” https://cen.acs.org/policy/litigation/US-class-action-case-targets/96/i41?fbclid=IwAR1Rp54Ano-2h26KO_lmyjsvz0S8cigtx-1CqSqc03HJJJBAJ0K1y7H28O0
11.30.2018 NYC Firewire, “Researchers study presence of fluorinated chemicals in firefighter clothing” https://nycfirewire.net/entry/researchersstudychemicals
12.6.2018 Station Pride “Unused Fire Gear PFAS Test Results Are “Thousands of Times Higher” than EPA Drinking Water Standards” https://station-pride.com/2018/12/06/unused-fire-gear-pfas-test-results-are-thousands-of-times-higher-than-epa-drinking-water-standards/
12.13.2018 Shaheen, Murkowski Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging CDC and ATSDR to Prioritize Studies on Health Effects of Firefighters’ Exposure to PFAS https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-murkowski-lead-bipartisan-letter-urging-cdc-and-atsdr-to-prioritize-studies-on-health-effects-of-firefighters-exposure-to-pfas
12.20.18 Inside Indiana Business “The Mystery of Cancer in Firefighters: Two Indiana Researchers Uncover Clues” http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/story/39674733/the-mystery-of-cancer-in-firefighters-two-indiana-researchers-uncover-clues
12.21.2018 Annie Ropeik - New Hampshire Public Radio “Firefighters Want In On CDC's Study Of PFAS Chemical Health Effects” https://www.nhpr.org/post/firefighters-want-cdcs-study-pfas-chemical-health-effects#stream/0
2019
1.3.2019 Congressmen Jim McGovern and Brian Fitzpatrick Send Bipartisan Letter to CDC and ATSDR https://mcgovern.house.gov/uploadedfiles/pfasletter.pdf
1.5.2019 IAFF Local 88 President Brian Grubb would successfully substantiate the need for PFAS serum tests for his members. along with full support from Fire Chief Jacob King of Wright Patterson AFB.
1.16.2019 Diane, Stakeholder Statement at MassDEP PFAS MRL Petition by Toxics Action Center and Conservation Law Fund https://medium.com/@dianecotter/my-january-16-2019-stakeholder-statement-at-massdep-pfas-mrl-petition-by-toxics-action-center-and-8c49bf7facf2
2.1.2019 PFFM and State Rep Jim Hawkins file PFAS legislation for firefighters!! 84 co-signers In House: HD 3590 An Act relative to the reduction of certain toxic chemicals in Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment - In Senate: SD 1784 An Act relative to the reduction of certain toxic chemicals in Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment
note.. this legislation has been made possible by the efforts of President Rich Mackinnon and Legislative Agent Paul Jacques, along with Local 1009 President Michael Papagni and Local 1314 President Jason Burns. It will prove to be the strongest legislation written GLOBALLY for the protection of firefighters and PFAS laden PPE. I could not be prouder of these leader for their efforts and tenacity. This bill should be replicated across the nation. https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H3661/BillHistory
2.8.2019 Annie Ropeik NHPR - Major Pease PFAS Study Poised To Proceed Without Including Fire Service https://www.nhpr.org/post/major-pease-pfas-study-poised-proceed-without-including-fire-service?fbclid=IwAR20ACNVGdF2sHlWHe0Iw9dwQr-3u45hmSn_RwSGUzvn3Y8tVc8CjcseUKA#stream/0
2.10.2019 Diane Cotter - Medium, In Response to CDC/ATSDR Omission of Firefighters to 100 Million Dollar PFAS Study. https://medium.com/@dianecotter/in-response-to-cdc-atsdr-omission-of-firefighters-to-100-million-dollar-pfas-study-72f78bedb49f
2.25.2019 Melbourne firefighters will give regular blood and plasma donations as part of a world-first study into reducing chemicals in their system. A 12-month clinical pilot study through Macquarie University will look at whether the regular donations lower the level of polyfluroalkyl substances, or PFAS, in firefighters' blood. https://www.portpirierecorder.com.au/story/5923667/melbourne-firefighters-in-blood-study/?cs=9397&fbclid=IwAR1GAIxisZ60spVqMWH1ghBSKwpPWOVAlDxM3LlHfaZh9cRIucctVDy9XTw
2.26.2019 Blair Miller - Boston 25 News, “Local firefighters concerned about potentially dangerous chemicals on gear” https://www.boston25news.com/news/local-firefighters-facing-concerns-over-potentially-dangerous-chemicals-on-gear/925236612
2.26.2019 President PFFM Richard Mackinnon decalres “The PFFM will insist that municipalities provide our firefighters with safe turnout gear and other equipment to protect our members.”
2.26.2019 Blair Miller - Boston 25 News, “Lawmakers call for immediate action on firefighter gear after Boston 25 report” https://www.boston25news.com/news/lawmakers-call-for-immediate-action-on-firefighter-gear-after-boston-25-report/925500483?fbclid=IwAR12MB50-kSofwAlwNbi-G8qu03NRvWUkrmtNi4-ZtAS7WVt4gO5vbCimPo
3.8.2019 Diane Cotter - Medium “How is it 3M, DuPont and others can sit on NFPA and not disclose toxins in equipment knowing if they did it impacts their bottom line?” https://medium.com/@dianecotter/how-is-it-3m-dupont-and-others-can-sit-on-nfpa-and-not-disclose-toxins-in-equipment-knowing-if-fead0cb24193
3.19.2019 Statement of PATRICK J. MORRISON Assistant to the General President, International Association of Fire Fighters before the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change United States House of Representatives on Mismanaging Chemical Risks: EPA’s Failure to Protect Workers March 13, 2019 https://energycommerce.house.gov/sites/democrats.energycommerce.house.gov/files/documents/03.13.19_Witness%20Testimony_Morrison.pdf
3.27.2019 Humpday Hangout with Pj Norwood and Frank Ricci, What are PFOA’s & Does Your Gear Contain These Cancer-Causing Chemicals? Chief Bobby Halton, Professor Graham Peaslee, and the Cotters. A Focus on Firefighter Health and Safety discussion
3.28.2019 Statement and Question for Senator Markey at March 28, 2019 Senate PFAS Hearing Entered into Record. Delivered to Senator Markey by Kristen Mello and Loreen Hackett, fellow advocates. https://medium.com/@dianecotter/statement-and-question-for-senator-markey-at-senate-pfas-hearing-please-809a384ded3e
4.12.2019 Professor Peaslee to appear at FDIC teaching PFAS 101 https://events.pennwell.com/FDIC2019/Public/SessionDetails.aspx?FromPage=Sessions.aspx&SessionID=24664
4.12.2019 Attorney Robert Billot Responds to 3M, DuPont, et al’s ‘motion to dismiss’ Hardwick vs 3M, DuPont et al.
https://medium.com/@dianecotter/4-12-2019-robert-bilotts-response-to-motion-to-dismiss-by-3m-dupont-et-al-26bae81175e8
4.17.2019 Webinar with Dr Patrick Breysse regarding CDC/ATSDR PFAS Study. Statement and Question here:
4.24.2019 Webinar with Professor Graham Peaslee, hosted by Shaina Kasper of Toxics Action Center, PFASProject.net and Last Call Foundation https://pfasproject.net/webinar-18-pfas-101-and-turnout-gear/fbclid=IwAR1gKvDeN20IpLYzq5u3lywAa2Q9inIB8bgGFD1Yxx95uAcsA208ml-k4eA
4.24.2019 Lion Manufacturing : HERE’S ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PFOA AND YOUR TURNOUT GEAR
https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/3475623/LION_PFOA_factsheet_042419.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0w-XaMhVppAQh27oKmsKEh1EG5DUFleIBNZ_cjt5wXUdp-UPL8OTDBPHQ
May, 2019 Dr Alberto Caban-Martinez; Journal of Medicine -
Use of Aqueous FilmForming Foams and Knowledge of Perfluorinated Compounds Among Florida Firefighters https://journals.lww.com/joem/Fulltext/2019/05000/Use_of_Aqueous_Film_Forming_Foams_and_Knowledge_of.20.aspx
5.8.2019 Diane’s interview with Callie Lyons of ‘A Chemical Conversaton’ https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/a-chemical/a-chemical-conversation-with-hTvWbtAw7yk/
A firefighter's wife talks about PFAS contamination in the fire service and how she sent 6,000 emails in three years looking for answers, advocating for firefighters who are suffering from cancer, and pushing the legislative agenda to be more protective of the fire service and military personnel
5 .13.2019 3M, DuPont, Chemours, Archroma, Arkema, Daikin, Solvay, REPLY IN SUPPORT OF DEFENDANTS’ JOINT MOTION TO DISMISS
https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/reply-in-support-of-defendantsjoint-motion-to-dismiss-101a0a02002a
5.14.2019 Statement On #pfas with Fire Fighter Testimonies to House Committee on Energy & Commerce May 15, 2019 https://medium.com/@dianecotter/statement-on-pfas-with-fire-fighter-testimonies-to-house-committee-on-energy-commerce-may-15-aab6673278d2
5.16.2019 Wife of Former Firefighter Testifies About PFAS Danger
By Karen Hensel
https://www.nbcboston.com/investigations/Wife-of-Former-Firefighter-Testifies-About-PFAS-Danger-510041181.html
5.22.2019 PFAS LOBBYING DAY, MAY 15TH, 2019 SUMMARY OF EVENTS https://medium.com/@dianecotter/pfas-lobbying-day-may-15th-2019-summary-of-events-e9a2727cc91d
5.13.19 Defendants in Hardwick v 3M, DuPont, Chemours, et al., file Reply in Support to Motion to Dismiss https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/reply-in-support-of-defendantsjoint-motion-to-dismiss-101a0a02002a?postPublishedType=repub
5.19.2019 Diane Statement On #pfas with Fire Fighter Testimonies to House Committee on Energy & Commerce May 15, 2019 “HEARING ON “PROTECTING AMERICANS AT RISK OF PFAS CONTAMINATION & EXPOSURE”
https://medium.com/@dianecotter/statement-on-pfas-with-fire-fighter-testimonies-to-house-committee-on-energy-commerce-may-15-aab6673278d2
5.23.2019 Senator Jeanne Shaheen, NH, Announces Measure Banning PFAS Chemicals from Firefighting Foam Included in Committee-Approved Annual Defense Bill
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-measure-banning-pfas-chemicals-from-firefighting-foam-included-in-committee-approved-annual-defense-bill
6.10.2019 Diane and Paul, PFAS Conference at Northeastern University. First time for First Responder SEgment
https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/paul-and-i-are-leaving-this-morning-for-the-national-pfas-conference-being-held-at-northeastern-939ee421b0db
Chapter 4 - Dr Peaslee delivers PFAS RESULTS. Also, Dr Miriam Calkins, IAFF F-88 President Brian Grubb, Australia’s Krystle Mitchell Sr Sci & Enviromental Director of MBS, Environmental Attorney Robert Bilott, Introduction by Wildland Firefighter; Dr Alissa Cordner, Whitman College :
https://bluejeans.com/playback/s/IrmzJppVhw5qfnPlTRRTJnBPe0cdmnRww6vioHnZ530qDELz8Bg6mQpfgtiBMY2m?fbclid=IwAR1MgdiJ9SrUZKjXXI_HLSt5n8AQa80GhUbIo5xDILQ4stXGjpbq6gVGu7I
6.10.2019 Dr Miriam Calkins, NIOSH ; SLIDE PRESENTATION: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6R8Ok-Cikg5RXZ3X05uaGpoTDF1RVdGTGhrbVVibXJ5czBJ/view
6.10.2019 Andrea Amico, Testing For Pease; Slide Presentation; What are Medical Monitoring and Health Studies? https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6R8Ok-Cikg5T2h6a2dRTUJ3RFh5ckpTMVpVQThoTEFCc1Nn/view
6.18.2019 Dr Sarah Janhke ; PFAS exposure and risks: Your questions answered Older bunker gear may expose firefighters to harmful chemicals https://www.firerescue1.com/cancer/articles/394346018-PFAS-exposure-and-risks-Your-questions-answered/?fbclid=IwAR00dsmCeKCq7O68HI1YHiLBaxODogHlF6RqCSoEEkLaQHt10RwLVs1YhzA
7.11.2019 EWG Applauds Passage of House Amendments to End Military Uses of PFAS https://www.ewg.org/release/ewg-applauds-passage-house-amendments-end-military-uses-pfas?fbclid=IwAR2saD1urJVzL0Kwbi21h8ynvEJJpc1NsCcWNA9LSOQ-lXRQ5N-Lh5ipuO4
7.12.2019 Callie Lyons… PFAS in the House, and many Snowflakes : https://chemicalconversation.blogspot.com/2019/07/pfas-in-house.html?fbclid=IwAR2YTVHI2NGd-P1UjGG_9mcw1l5YQFuuL3e6hR5geHI1BpyXH2n0UbIS27o
7.14.2019 A Heartfelt Thank you to our Legislators https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/a-heartfelt-thank-you-2f1f3839ef7c
7.19.2019 Dr Philippe Grandjean, Harvard Chan School of Public Health https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/curbing-the-use-of-forever-chemicals/?fbclid=IwAR1I8I4jjXnAwioZIrzIE2P5GvA7pYUukQLvhEzYRRXA8Hd2ENmdhaVETNw
When the researchers developed a dose-response assessment, they found that pancreatic tumors developed even at very low concentrations of PFOA, suggesting that the lifetime human exposure limit for this type of PFAS should be only 0.1 parts per trillion. But the EPA’S current guideline, which isn’t even legally binding, is 70 parts per trillion—700-fold too high.
7.20.2019 Diane, via Medium ; SOMBODY HAS GOT TO STEP UP HERE… The question we need to ask is, are we getting .1 parts per trillion of PFOA on our hands after we handle our gear?
7.23.2019 STATEMENT House Committee on Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Environment - “ The Devil They Knew " PFAS Contamination and the Need for Corporate Accountability https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/the-greatest-deception-ever-c321e36b3805
7.30.2019 https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/attorney-general-james-leads-coalition-22-state-attorneys-general-urging-congress-act
Attorney General James Leads Coalition Of 22 State Attorneys General In Urging Congress To Act On Toxic ‘Forever' Chemicals - AGs Argue that Federal Legislation is Urgently Needed to Fight Widespread “PFAS” Contamination To Date, PFAS Contamination Cleanups Have Cost New Yorkers More Than $51 million
https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/attorneys-general-of-new-york-california-connecticut-delaware-district-of-columbia-guam-daf98cc2f568
7.31.2019 Senator Gary Peters ,Sens. Cory Gardner (R-Colorado), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), and Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire) introduces New Senate bill limits firefighter exposure to PFAS ~ Co Sponsored by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire)
https://www.mlive.com/news/2019/07/new-senate-bill-limits-firefighter-exposure-to-pfas.html
The Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act of 2019 would direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – in consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Fire Administration, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health – to develop educational resources to help protect firefighters, emergency response personnel, and the communities they serve from PFAS exposure. This would include information for federal, state, and local firefighters on training and best practices to prevent and reduce exposure to PFAS from firefighting foams and protective gear, as well as resources that identify alternatives for firefighting tools and equipment that do not contain PFAS.
8.13.2019 Diane delivers testimony at request of Congresswoman Annie Kuster and Congressman Chris Pappas at Congressional PFAS Field Hearing
https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/statement-to-congresswoman-annie-kuster-and-congressman-chris-pappas-august-13-2019-pfas-field-5c4d8fe939d8
August 22, 2019 22 States Attorney Generals : https://www.recordonline.com/news/20190802/state-ag-joins-push-to-take-more-action-on-pfas-toxic-chemicals
https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MIEOG/2019/09/18/file_attachments/1288014/NDAA%20PFAS%20Letter%209.18.19_Final%20.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1FHg6VpGpTzLwU35LU0ac7th-60SzDwmEGy3rydNsjaApwoas_EUDMl8g
9.5.2019 https://www.ewg.org/testimony-official-correspondence/ngo-letter-support-pfas-provisions-fy-2020-ndaa NGO Letter in Support of PFAS Provisions in the FY 2020 NDAA
9.10.2019 House Oversight Committee “The Devil They Knew”….
Watch hearing here: https://oversight.house.gov/legislation/hearings/the-devil-they-knew-pfas-contamination-and-the-need-for-corporate-0
Witnesses
Panel One: Robert A. Bilott Partner Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP ; Lori Swanson Former Attorney General State of Minnesota
Matthew Hardin (minority witness)Commonwealth Attorney Greene County, Virginia
Panel Two Denise R. Rutherford Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs The 3M Company; Paul Kirsch President of Fluoroproducts The Chemours Company; Daryl Roberts Chief Operations & Engineering Officer DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
During this hearing 3m, DuPont, and Chemours will denouce their responsibility for firefighters and veterans with cancer as a result of their PFAS. https://www.eenews.net/stories/1061112291?fbclid=IwAR1yk8qZ9Lh3QSYjHXbgPg-VlcwvlfjHGiAh_-hnwNJuvPHcgW8qBA0-8HU
See transcript here: https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2019/09/18/pfas-chemical-company-execs-under-fire-in-congress/
3 weeks prior 3M supported the IAFF Cancer Summit as a Silver Sponsor. https://redmondems.iaff.org/registered-exhibitors-and-sponsors
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Senator Jeanne Shaheen of NH announceS bipartisan FEDERAL LEGISLATION FOR PFAS IN PPE WITH sENATOR cORY gARDNER of Colorado !!!
September 20, 2019 https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-gardner-announce-new-legislation-to-address-health-concerns-regarding-pfas-exposure-through-firefighter-protective-gear
September 24, 2019: hearing in massachusetts statehouse hearing: h.3661 strongest language yetglobally for pfas in ppe BY rEP jim hawkins OF attleboro, ma. over 80 co-sponsors !!!
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H3661/BillHistory
STATEMENT ; DIANE COTTER WITH SUPPORTING TEXT by DR GRAHAM PEASLEE, in SUPPORT OF H.3661 https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/statement-of-diane-cotter-with-4de2d706a0ab An Act relative to the reduction of certain toxic chemicals in firefighter personal protective equipment
TEXT IN SUPPORT OF H.3661 by Professor Graham Peaslee https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/text-in-support-of-h-3661-by-professor-graham-peaslee-5049be9222b1
9.26.2019 CONGRESSWOMAN ANNIE KUSTER: Thank you Congresswoman Annie Kuster FOR PROTECTING THE PROTECTORS !!! Listen as Annie Kuster discusses the PFAS summit we spoke at and her NDAA plea that will protect first responders from the harmful chemials in our PPE and AFFF !!! h.2596
9.27.2019 Remarks from Rob Bilott [Social Good Summit 2019] TRAILER , #DARKWATERS STARRING MARK RUFFALO AS ROBERT BILOTT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8I2qyW8siE&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR0IS3dGa9rbN1eOmDuY0TWArGthlxUQeeWt7C0tippDeQzhk2P8Lk1akPk
September 30th 2019, Senator Shaheen announces 2,000,000 for firefighter PFAS in PPE funding !! https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/in-committee-approved-funding-bill-shaheen-boosts-funding-for-anti-opioid-grants-pfas-research-and-federal-support-to-improve-mental-health-services-for-law-enforcement
Examine Safety of Firefighters’ Personal Equipment
Shaheen included $2 million for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) personal protective equipment research. Last week, Shaheen introduced new bipartisan legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), which would take important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters’ occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment.
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2019. fire chief kevin hardwick v 3m, dupont, chemours, et al., MOTION TO DISMISS, ‘DENIED’ https://www.ewg.org/release/federal-court-class-action-suit-against-pfas-chemical-makers-can-proceed
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-AnlvjjWSM89QExUq40tEZE9NlrO1867/view?fbclid=IwAR3XOq8agLA7eijJ0rIIw5tm7JbTCxFkfKbyogVS6n7vXXSfWpp7ccXYFF0
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OCTOBER 1, 2019 . New Study Confirms High PFAS Blood Levels Among Firefighters https://www.ewg.org/release/ew-study-confirms-high-pfas-blood-levels-among-firefighters?fbclid=IwAR3QoMMgqJK7flDy0YVL4RxZrnTWkYZ2468TAxfRe4gVKT8kh6FlWhmPf7w
OCTOBER 3, 2019. CHEMOURS CEO RESIGNS. https://investors.chemours.com/news-releases/news-releases-details/2019/Chemours-Fluoroproducts-Business-President-Resigns-Company-Appoints-Chemical-Solutions-Business-President-to-Lead-Fluoroproducts-as-Well/default.aspx?fbclid=IwAR1NlvIa-WXaWulrZSkpAuMl3IwmSOMsLP1aktyQ_8tadEwSSUGfh7I1seI
OCTOBER 4, 2019. Commander Mick Tisbury: U.N. Expert Committee Recommends Global Elimination of Toxic Chemical Harming Health of Firefighters https://ipen.org/news/un-expert-committee-recommends-global-elimination-toxic-chemical-harming-health-firefighters?fbclid=IwAR3sfE-CAdLqdyRChHbCoQo1s4_MIJBEiZmEknfAKXVKu3HJDBjErkEyPoo
OCTOBER 4, 2019. BREAST CANCER ACTION CAMPAIGN ‘THINK BEFORE YOU PINK’ https://medium.com/@kaiserc.cotter15_20335/3ms-warning-to-firefighters-8f38e2927a60
OCTOBER 12, 2109. Notre Dame Halftime Commercial during Fighting Irish v SC Trojans - NBC Sports and University of Notre Dame airs “What Would You Fight For” featuring Dr Graham Peaslee, Paul and Diane Cotter. Over 100,000 views in 48 hours. Seen by audience of over 4 million. https://fightingfor.nd.edu/2019/fighting-to-protect-the-brave/?utm_campaign=Fightingfor&utm_medium=NDsocial&utm_source=Facebook
October 16, 2019 - Award Winning Journalist Amy Cherry of WDEL pubishes her 4 part series on fIRST RESPONDERS AND VETERANS pfas EXPOSURE FROM afff AND ppe.
https://www.wdel.com/news/fighting-fire-with-fire-military-firefighters-question-whether-myriad-of/article_be00a374-ef85-11e9-ae83-c3dbc39a550c.html
https://www.wdel.com/news/fighting-fire-with-fire-toxic-chemicals-in-firefighter-gear-could/article_bd087952-f042-11e9-bb9f-4b7d5c4690c6.html
https://www.wdel.com/news/fighting-fire-with-fire-notre-dame-researcher-delaware-delegation-fight/article_72b21342-f121-11e9-b239-67a49aa485e4.html
https://post.futurimedia.com/wdel/playlist/40/listen-4262.html?cb=1571436313.338702&fbclid=IwAR0y0UHxjcPs13_BLh-8Kc297DYwRO6TvQS-6z3_Gdkc3pDh0sd4MCLROwM
OCTOBER 21, 2019 - JON MARR, STATION PRIDE: Notre Dame University Pushes the Modern Fire Service to be Better.https://station-pride.com/2019/10/21/notre-dame-university-pushes-the-modern-fire-service-to-be-better/
NOVEMBER 6, 2019 - Bill Protecting Firefighters from PFAS Clears Senate Panel Bill. A bill seeking to limit first responders’ exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals in firefighting foam and heat-proof gear is lining up for a Senate floor vote after getting approval from a committee on Nov. 6. The bill (S. 2353) would task the Federal Emergency Management Agency with developing guidance to protect firefighters and other first responders from exposure to PFAS. https://news.bloombergenvironment.com/environment-and-energy/bill-protecting-firefighters-from-pfas-clears-senate-panel?fbclid=IwAR2NMntJVj1wgiOaj4rsWEpAGKoMxrNzPCfcPp-oF7ELevNGcZ33tsbsm4U
NOVEMBER 13, 2019 - Shaheen-Gardner Bill to Address Health Concerns Regarding Firefighters’ Exposure to PFAS through Protective Gear Clears Key Committee Hurdle - UNANIMOUSLY !!
November 19, 2019. Washington DC Premier of Dark Waters - the true life story of Rob Bilott. Played by Mark Ruffalo. A Participant Media Production. Paul and I would be invited with other activists to share our story at the day’s events. Here is our recap: https://medium.com/@dianecotter/darkwaters-dc-day-11-19-19-22865dba6fc0
December 15, 2019 - Notre Dame professor is ambassador for 'Dark Waters' film
https://www.southbendtribune.com/news/local/notre-dame-professor-is-ambassador-for-dark-waters-film/article_f0ab2ee4-1dd8-11ea-81f0-2b8af07d604f.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=user-share&fbclid=IwAR3psp2kNoYV2m3MhYN1k3nvR0iLAlIFbTfynV35JV-eKcOyLF6Mi8UJKso
December 16, 2019. Senator Shaheen announces 2 million dollars for PFAS PPE STUDIES !!
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/pfas-provisions-championed-and-supported-by-shaheen-included-in-newly-released-government-funding-legislation?fbclid=IwAR1dlOr2M7S1kf3MSrfDayWWkNuR0Pn4f16XAgCwO3KCiTIRm-LfkFawjBc
$2 million for research into firefighter personal protective equipment, which is a key component in Shaheen’s bipartisan bill with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) that takes important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters’ occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment;
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-gardner-announce-new-legislation-to-address-health-concerns-regarding-pfas-exposure-through-firefighter-protective-gear
December 17, 2019 WASHINGTON – A defense spending bill passed by the Senate today excludes key provisions designed to reduce ongoing releases of the toxic fluorinated chemicals called PFAS, remove PFAS from tap water and clean up legacy PFAS contamination.
https://www.ewg.org/testimony-official-correspondence/defense-bill-fails-address-pfas-pollution-kentucky
December 27, 2019. Why a corporate lawyer is sounding the alarm about these common chemicals Carey Gillam
The inspiration for Mark Ruffalo’s character in the film Dark Waters, Rob Bilott believes the battle to protect polluted communities is far from over
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/dec/27/chemicals-dupont-rob-bilott-toxic-america?CMP=share_btn_tw
December 30, 2019. After 4 to 5 years of denial, IAFF is on the RECORD with a PFAS in PPE study. We will be watching for results which, we can guess will be similar to our own study. We will also be watching for the course of actions IAFF will or will not take.
https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/next/assessing-firefighting-gear-for-cancer-risks/73-1ecc5298-7cf8-4e58-9167-cb7b3bd289c8?fbclid=IwAR1D3xro320L48Wt14QsUIvhklDA7owlLnniUV-W8PTqg02L0_6AjEschHI
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2020
JANUARY
3M NOW ADMITS TO USING PFAS IN PPE VIA BLAIR MILLER - COX BROADCASTING
HTTPS://TWITTER.COM/BLAIRMILLERTV/STATUS/12146373186210611
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To Support Military Families, Congress Must PASS the PFAS ACTION ACT
ON WEDNESDAY, I SPENT THE DAY WITH RETIRED MILITARY FIREFIGHTER KEVIN FERRARA.
LIKE THOUSANDS OF MILITARY FIREFIGHTERS, MASTER SGT. FERRARA WAS TRAINED AT CHANUTE AIR FORCE BASE – A NOW-CLOSED FACILITY IN ILLINOIS – TO SPRAY FIREFIGHTING FOAMS MADE WITH THE TOXIC FLUORINATED CHEMICALS KNOWN AS PFAS.
HTTPS://WWW.EWG.ORG/NEWS-AND-ANALYSIS/2020/01/SUPPORT-MILITARY-FAMILIES-CONGRESS-MUST-PASS-PFAS-ACTION-ACT
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FEBRUARY
ON TODAY'S EPISODE OF THE 25 LIVE, JIM DISCUSSES PFOA/PFAS WITH ATTORNEY/ACTIVIST ROB BILOTT. ROB IS THE AUTHOR OF EXPOSURE & INSPIRATION FOR THE MOVIE DARK WATERS, WHICH CHRONICLES HIS 20+ YEAR FIGHT WITH DUPONT.
HTTPS://FIREFIGHTERCANCERCONSULTANTS.COM/EPISODE-21-ROB-BILOTT/
EWG - STUDY: PFAS EXPOSURE THROUGH SKIN CAUSES HARM SIMILAR TO INGESTION
HTTPS://WWW.EWG.ORG/NEWS-AND-ANALYSIS/2020/01/STUDY-PFAS-EXPOSURE-THROUGH-SKIN-CAUSES-HARM-SIMILAR-INGESTION
SHAHEEN APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF BILL IMPROVING FEDERAL RESPONSE TO PFAS CONTAMINATION, CALLS FOR SENATE VOTE
HTTPS://WWW.SHAHEEN.SENATE.GOV/NEWS/PRESS/SHAHEEN-APPLAUDS-HOUSE-PASSAGE-OF-BILL-IMPROVING-FEDERAL-RESPONSE-TO-PFAS-CONTAMINATION-CALLS-FOR-SENATE-VOTE
EWG APPLAUDS HISTORIC BIPARTISAN PFAS VOTE
HTTPS://WWW.EWG.ORG/RELEASE/EWG-APPLAUDS-HISTORIC-BIPARTISAN-PFAS-VOTE
OUR MASSACHUSETTS BILL H3661 BY REP JIM HAWKINS ORDERED TO IT’S 3RD READING - HTTPS://MALEGISLATURE.GOV/BILLS/191/H3661
WOMEN FIREFIGHTERS FACE HIGH EXPOSURE TO TOXIC ‘FOREVER CHEMICALS’
HTTPS://NEWS.BERKELEY.EDU/2020/02/26/WOMEN-FIREFIGHTERS-FACE-HIGH-EXPOSURE-TO-TOXIC-FOREVER-CHEMICALS/
FEBRUARY 18.
EMAIL TO PAT MORRISON, ASSISTANT TO GEN PRESIDENT SCHAITBERGER, IN PROTEST OF PFAS DIALOGUE TO THE FLEET.
HTTPS://MEDIUM.COM/@DIANECOTTER/EMAIL-TO-PAT-MORRISON-ASSISTANT-TO-GP-INTERNATIONAL-ASSOCIATION-OF-FIREFIGHTERS-390C499CCB12
DIANE AND PAUL COTTER - #DARKWATERS CAMPAIGN. WWW.FIGHTFOREVERCHEMICALS.COM
WHY WE FIGHT VIDEO BY PARTICIPANT MEDIA HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=9YYEMFPVAUO
NIOSH STUDY ANNOUNCED !!
RESEARCHERS STUDY HEALTH RISK OF CHEMICALS IN FIREFIGHTER FOAM, PROTECTIVE GEAR
RESEARCHERS FROM THE MEL AND ENID ZUCKERMAN COLLEGE OF PUBLIC HEALTH RECEIVED A $1.5 MILLION GRANT FROM THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY TO LEAD A STUDY OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TO SYNTHETIC CHEMICALS AMONG FIREFIGHTERS.
HTTPS://UANEWS.ARIZONA.EDU/STORY/RESEARCHERS-STUDY-HEALTH-RISK-CHEMICALS-FIREFIGHTER-FOAM-PROTECTIVE-GEAR
THE EFFECT OF WEATHERING ON PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFASS) FROM DURABLE WATER REPELLENT (DWR) CLOTHING.
HTTPS://WWW.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV/PUBMED/32062207
MARCH
THE FLEET STILL HEARING THE WAIT FOR MORE STUDIES MESSAGE
HTTPS://WWW.FIRERESCUE1.COM/FIRE-PRODUCTS/TURNOUTGEAR/ARTICLES/IS-FIREFIGHTING-BUNKER-GEAR-DANGEROUS-NUHQFK2MNHQ0OPWC/
SHAHEEN, CARPER & SCHUMER INTRODUCE LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO FUND PFAS CLEANUP HTTPS://WWW.SHAHEEN.SENATE.GOV/NEWS/PRESS/SHAHEEN-CARPER-AND-SCHUMER-INTRODUCE-LANDMARK-LEGISLATION-TO-FUND-PFAS-CLEANUP
INTERVIEW AND TRANSCRIPT WITH ANDY SINGLETON OF FDNY - ANDY IS RUNNING FOR FDNY RECORDING SECRETARY AND SOUGHT TO INFORM THE FLEET OF THE PFAS IN PPE ISSUE.
HTTPS://MEDIUM.COM/@DIANECOTTER/ANDY-HELLO-WELCOME-BACK-A34CB5E03BB1
HTTPS://WWW.RECORDINGSECRETARYUFA.COM/PODCAST/PFOATURNOUTGEAR?FORMAT=AMP
THE EXPLOSIVE AND REVEALING ERIC LAMAR SERIES ON HAROLD SCHAITBERGER..
THIS IS IMPORTANT AS PAUL AND I HAVE FELT FOR 3 YEARS SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG IN THE IAFF AND HAVE ASKED FOR A INVESTIGATION INTO THE SILENCE OF SCHAITBERGER AND INTO THE MISINFORMATION AND INDUSTRY DRIVEN DIALOGUE REGARDING THE PFOA AND PFAS IN TURNOUT GEAR ALONG WITH IAFF CANCER SUMMIT SPONSORSHIPS BY 3M AND DUPONT WHO DENY THEIR PRODUCTS CAUSE HARM.
APRIL 1 - VICE PRESIDENTS SHUT OFF SCHAITBERGERS PENSION
HTTPS://MEDIUM.COM/@LAMARERICSLAMAR/IAFF-THE-LIST-OF-CHARGES-8D10D0D270CB
MARCH 31 - THE LIST OF CHARGES:
HTTPS://MEDIUM.COM/@LAMARERICSLAMAR/IAFF-THE-LIST-OF-CHARGES-8D10D0D270CB
MARCH 25 - IAFF SECRETARY TREASURER ED KELLY EXPOSES GEN PRESIDENT HAROLD SCHAITBERGER MISMANAGMENT OF THE PENSION FUND AND MISSING MILLIONS :
HTTPS://MEDIUM.COM/@LAMARERICSLAMAR/IAFF-THE-EDZO-STRIKES-BACK-3A9044D9A3EC
THE 105 PAGE DOCUMENT iaff gst ED KELLY FILED:
HTTPS://WWW.DROPBOX.COM/S/O81BRRBO2Q14QG2/FINAL%20MEMORANDUM%20TO%20THE%20GP%20%281%29.PDF?DL=0&FBCLID=IWAR2YIGWCFNLMXUAXPSPBVSPINGU0EZKGQA7UU3QMAYQYYUOAHK3JGWIRQUS
FINALLY. A FIRE INSTITUTION LEADER EMERGES. BOBBY HALTON.
The National Fireman’s Journal Podcast: Firefighter Cancer, PFOA, PFOS, and Toxic PPE
HTTPS://WWW.FIREENGINEERING.COM/2020/03/28/485991/NATIONAL-FIREMANS-JOURNAL-FIREFIGHTER-CANCER-TOXIC-PPE/?FBCLID=IWAR1CRZEWUY-PT0TCWZWUNCQI_OQIGEO-QRMFDXUNOXSWQ_OVPH5QD4EJ_BA
APRIL
'DARK WATERS' ATTORNEY ROB BILOTT WORKS ON SEQUEL WITH CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT OVER 'FOREVER CHEMICALS' - INTERVIEW WITH FIRE CHIEF JEFFREY HERMES:
CASE AIMS TO FORCE CHEMICAL COMPANIES TO FUND RESEARCH ON PFAS
HTTPS://WWW.WCPO.COM/NEWS/LOCAL-NEWS/I-TEAM/DARK-WATERS-ATTORNEY-ROB-BILOTT-WORKS-ON-SEQUEL-WITH-CLASS-ACTION-LAWSUIT-OVER-FOREVER-CHEMICALS
CONGRESSMAN DAN KILDEE, REP BRIAN FITZPATRICK AND 21 CO-SIGNORS:
INCREASE PROTECTIONS FOR MILITARY FIREFIGHTERS. MILITARY FIREFIGHTERS NOT ONLY HAVE EXPOSURE TO PFAS IN FIREFIGHTING FOAM, BUT IT ALSO IS IN THE PROTECTIVE GEAR THAT THEY WEAR. WE MUST PROTECT OUR FIREFIGHTERS FROM PFAS BY ELIMINATING IT SAFELY FROM THEIR GEAR, AND ALSO SUPPORTING THOSE FIREFIGHTERS WHO HAVE ALREADY BEEN EXPOSED TO HIGH LEVELS OF THIS HARMFUL CHEMICAL.
HTTPS://DANKILDEE.HOUSE.GOV/SITES/DANKILDEE.HOUSE.GOV/FILES/4-2-20%20LETTER%20REP.%20KILDEE%202021%20NDAA%20PRIORITIES.PDF?FBCLID=IWAR33XR1TT8WDE1UFHXUCDXVBC3GTNWOFSJJ7MM_SPJNX414Z9_HTMCGMMAW
FIREFIGHTERS: IS OUR CHEMICALLY TREATED GEAR MAKING US SICK?
BEV BANKS, E&E NEWS REPORTER
HTTPS://WWW.EENEWS.NET/STORIES/1062751033?FBCLID=IWAR3LRTUQYD46YG8VT8V2FWXKK_2ILOXNUT_CSCCNL9AJUG4BBF_Z5RK6JCO
https://www.sffcpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2020-PPE-Hazards-PFAS-PDF-SLIDES.pdf San Francisco FireFighter Cancer Prevention Foundation - Tony Stefani, Matt Alba
JUNE
LION GEAR FIGHTING THE ISSUE TOOTH AND NAIL… USING PAID CONSULTANT TO SPIN THEIR WEB..
JUNE 13… FINALLY !!! 5 YEARS INTO THE GREATEST DECEPTION EVER !!!
IAFF’S PAT MORRISON CALLS DR GRAHAM PEASLEE.. and… Dr Peaslee tells him btw.. ‘Diane got the 2 million dollar study for turnout gear. Not you. God that man is amazing
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June 23.. THE STUDY… Please download your copy of Dr Peaslee’s study from Last Call Foundation’s page.. and give a little donation please. This wouldn’t of happened without them. See also the correlating articles produced after the study was released on our Dr Peaslee tab.
https://www.lastcallfoundation.org/
https://news.nd.edu/news/gear-treated-with-forever-chemicals-poses-risk-to-firefighters/ Notre Dame Release
https://spectrumnews1.com/ma/worcester/news/2020/06/25/wfd-turnout-gear Spectrum News Worcester, MA
https://therising.co/2020/06/26/pfas-firefighter-ppe-study/ Jessica Xing
https://flemingcollege.webex.com/mw3300/mywebex/nbrDownload.do?siteurl=flemingcollege Neil McMillian
https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=2970853233025884&ref=watch_permalink Bilott, Peaslee, Knobbe, Cotters, Scott Faber EWG
https://podcast.afso21.com/1009393/4354433-pfas-in-turnout-gear-findings with Dr Graham Peaslee and Kevin Ferrara host AFSO21
https://www.ppe101.com/2020/06/study-finds-high-levels-of-pfas-in-turnout-gear/ Jeff STull
https://cen.acs.org/content/cen/articles/98/i26/Protective-gear-expose-firefighters-PFAS.html Raleigh McElvery
https://www.firefighternation.com/firerescue/what-if-i-told-you-your-gear-was-causing-cancer-part-2/ Larissa Conroy
JULY
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/environment-and-energy/bill-would-assure-medical-care-for-firefighters-pfas-exposure Kildee, McGovern
https://www.fireengineering.com/features/your-gear-your-life-firefighter-ppe-toxins-and-what-to-do-about-them/ Bilott, Peaslee, Halton, Ricci, Norwood,
AUGUST
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=external&v=929778054163009 EWG, Faber, Knobee Mitchell Path to PFAS-FREE PPE
SEPTEMBER
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/dalmatprod206/episodes/2020-09-10T12_13_21-07_00 Dr Graham Peaslee w Steve Green 5-Alarm Task Force What’s Hiding In Out Bunker Gear?
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f15ece4888a7d47c1fe34bf/t/5f79ee2dc8f18a2d03382f73/1601826354294/200911_AFFF_Complaint.FILED_ENDORSED.pdf 24 Firefighters in California Sue Chemical Companies, Gear, and Foam Manufacturers for PFAS Exposure Damages
https://podcast.afso21.com/1009393/5382100-larissa-conroy-firefighter-paramedic-olympic-weightlifter?fbclid=IwAR3berBlnuiHDIXVk51coPKWXLiwKw6d4kQyLBjQ4QFjXTj75TLnYx0B3JY Larissa Conroy w Kevin Ferrara AFSO21
https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/its-time-for-firefighters-demand-pfas-free-ppe/ Sean Mitchell
https://communityactionworks.org/pfas-firefighting-gear-dianes-story/
OCTOBER
https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/researcher-responds-to-claims-about-pfas-firefighter-ppe/?fbclid=IwAR2TT39FQZSRjYGzaP0PW0mZNBfm4uNXRU1vpbRD5S2i4CL8t4IWdBQiXG0 Dr Graham Peaslee - Fire Engineering
https://www.facebook.com/7962229886/videos/751280842098206 EWG LIVE - Firefighter Exposure to Toxic Forever Chemicals Join this panel of experts to discuss all the ways that the firefighter community are exposed to toxic forever chemicals known as PFAS.
Panelists: Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Mich.), PFAS Attorney and Author Rob Bilott, Michigan State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer, protective equipment expert Jeff Knobbe, Notre Dame Professor Graham Peaslee
http://www.5-alarmtaskforcecorp.org/podcast.html#/podomatic_page/1/podcast/9867584 The Fight Against PFAS/PFOS in the Fire Service & Beyond Robert Bilott w Steve Greene of 5-Alarm Task Force
https://podcast.afso21.com/1009393/5831794-doctor-graham-peaslee-ppe-and-pfas-researcher? fbclid=IwAR1R7dBaSSwO38EzetaXhvHQCX3lv-0rhWuw4mm_jR7j2mTYIrbPstAAqL0SEPTEMBER Dr Graham Peaslee w Kevin Ferrara of AFSO21 Radio
https://open.spotify.com/episode/29T3LjgA1LuicmncA75pcf?si=WsHh1gE0TduHWY22n8rOnA&nd=1 Larissa Conroy w Kevin Ferrara of AFSO21 Radio
https://podcast.afso21.com/1009393/5616943-ppe-specialist-jeff-knobbe?fbclid=IwAR3NHZ3NK250_yn2xkXyN41z473gvWMGB35sQVR-IbeRcieINB8YHUxyUsA Jeff Knobbe w Kevin Ferrara AFSO21 Radio
https://toxicfreefuture.org/washington-needs-to-tackle-toxic-pfas-in-firefighting-gear/?fbclid=IwAR2CRtKK9l7zm4LDuup-qmKFxXhwzleMC-07jsPfyIWLUqrrWRcR1DeqYyU Erika Schreder - Toxic Free Future
NOVEMBER
https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/episode-63-sean-mitchell/ Sean Mitchell w Jim Burneka Jr of Firefighter Cancer Consultants
DECEMBER
Fighting to Protect the Brave: Video Highlights Researcher Probing Toxic Chemicals in Firefighter PPE
IMPORTANT NOTE: AFTER THE BROADCAST OF 'FIGHTING TO PROTECT THE BRAVE', LION GEAR WOULD SEND A LETTER OF DISCONTENT TO UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME FOR AIRING PROPAGANDA.
THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT WOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR NUCLEAR PHYSCIST.
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/pfas-project/firefighters-fret-over-health-threats-from-what-protects-them?context=article-related Andrew Wallender - Bloomberg Law
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB1044 CALIFORNIA SB1044 PASSES..WITH STRONG LANGUAGE
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2021
JANUARY
https://www.firefighternation.com/firerescue/pfas/ Larissa Conroy - Fire Engineering
https://www.fireengineering.com/podcasts/podcast-politics-and-tactics-jan-2021/ Burns, Glass, Mitchell - Fire Engineering Ricci, Polikof, Pappa
https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/aps-radio-iaff-resolutions-and-pfas/ Burns, Glass, Mitchell -FE’s Jim Burneka Jr APS Radio
https://lawandcrime.com/ross-investigates/the-greatest-deception-ever-firefighters-and-scientists-sound-the-alarm-about-cancer-causing-chemicals-in-protective-gear/ Brian Ross Investigates - Law and Crime Network
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/pfas-project/firefighters-want-halt-on-money-from-makers-of-pfas-laden-gear?context=article-related Andrew Wallender, Bloomberg News
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/26/climate/pfas-firefighter-safety.html Firefighters Battle an Unseen Hazard: Their Gear Could Be Toxic ~ This week, in a first, firefighters are demanding independent testing for cancer-linked chemicals known as PFAS in their gear and that their union drop sponsorships from chemical and equipment makers.
Hiroko Tabuchi New York Times
https://convention.iaff.org/news/delegate-approve-resolutions-addressing-pfas-in-ppe/?fbclid=IwAR3hkWaCasaCrKePtG7wGvbbud7CM-7PHqnOP3OD8P4AA8mz9I_tYmMr1gE IAFF 55th Convention - Delegates Approve Resolutions Addressing PFAS in PPE
https://open.spotify.com/episode/7c0DQRl7en3h5niLqt4OsV?si=PwAQV6wvRwOaXGiq49V3XQ&nd=1 Larissa Conroy w Jim Burneka Jr, Firefighter Cancer Consultants
FEBRUARY
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/pfas-project/pfas-resolutions-overwhelmingly-approved-by-firefighters-union Andrew Wallender - Bloomberg News
https://www.ewg.org/research/pfas-firefighter-timeline/ EWG - TIMELINE : ‘Forever Chemicals’ and Firefighters
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-021-00288-7?fbclid=IwAR3kMKIWMrZNpanccqum9P9ZZesu9qAY7xVUKwGdn7C0gt0Ay_A54SG_9YI PEASLEE, HARVARD FIREHOUSE DUST STUDY
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/02/06/metro/firefighters-may-be-wearing-gear-that-contains-toxic-chemicals-researchers-find/?fbclid=IwAR0sGTvzabnDTITrX3iN4416Esn1vDGOX2NydgmMnHAIyBJKhhxjGaqd2_I Dave Able, Boston Globe, Firefighters may be wearing gear that contains toxic chemicals, researchers find
https://www.ewg.org/release/study-almost-all-fire-stations-dust-unknown-forever-chemicals EWG -Monica Amarelo - Study: Almost All Fluorine Detected in Fire Stations’ Dust Is From Unknown ‘Forever Chemicals'
Diane with Pink Ladies Cancer Support Group, Jacquie Loughre for World Cancer Day 2021 ~ Listen in as we discuss #PFAS, #ForeverChemicals and the #GreatestDeceptionEver - Jacquie's team recorded the entire event. Our session begins at 4hr 15 min mark : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oi6hi4jUrMI&fbclid=IwAR0ZHetBnT5UARNeEMifNQqwO5HDOyTmt9mZ1lFbEOD_oomryb1QH2_RNkA
https://www.sffcpf.org/resolutions-to-protect-members-from-toxic-substances-in-ppe/?fbclid=IwAR1Dcgc1XcC0thtgYRyzPOUKhEJZpSyy5hMNurY2zi6TvT2vr_8NzXVXQSE San Francisco FireFighter Cancer Prevention Foundation : RESOLUTIONS PASS TO PROTECT FIREFIGHTERS FROM TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN PPE
Harvard University Discovers Fire Station Dust Loaded with PFAS in Published Study:
https://www.ewg.org/release/study-almost-all-fire-stations-dust-unknown-forever-chemicals
EWG Facebook Live Expert Panel with Dr’s Peaslee and Andrews and PPE Specialist Jeff Knobbe re: PFAS IN FIREHOUSE DUST: https://www.facebook.com/ewg.org/videos/?ref=page_internal
Firefighters' Catch-22: Protective gear full of carcinogens ~ E & E News’ Ariel Wittenberg’s 2 part series :
Firefighters' Catch-22: Protective gear full of carcinogens:
Firefighters face lies, 'phony' studies on PFAS exposure:
New University of Arizona studies looking at possible PFAS-COVID-19 link and Firefighters:
Guaranteeing Equipment Safety for Firefighters — PFAS Project 2.2 million dollar ‘NIST’ Study Update:
Update From National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) … via the Office of Senator Jeanne Shaheen, (D) NH ~ Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, & Related Agencies on Appropriations
LAW FIRMS SOLICITING FIREFIGHTERS TO JOIN FIREFIGHTING FOAM PFAS/PFOS LAWSUIT
FreeFAS™ Means PFAS-Free: Fire Service Innovation from TenCate Protective Fabrics
MARCH
DetecTogether delivers early cancer detection education to Worcester Fire Department
During the first week of March, DetecTogether delivered its 3 Steps Detect education to 400 Worcester firefighters. The training was sponsored by The Last Call Foundation and conducted over 32 sessions at the Worcester Fire Department Training Center on Grove Street.
This issue has come full circle for Paul and Diane. Last Call Foundation paid for 32 sessions of Detect Together training for WFD members. The reason this is so important to us is because the Workshops include PFAS turnout gear discussion, protocols, safe handling measures *
Firefighter Gear Full of Chemicals — How Dangerous Are They?
APS Radio: Ariel Wittenberg on PFAS and Fire Gear
https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/aps-radio-ariel-wittenberg-on-pfas-and-fire-gear/#gref
“Forever chemicals” in turnout gear fan the flames of hazard against the health of firefighters
*************
David Steinman of Healthy Living Magazine ~ publishes 10 part series :
Firehouses As Cancer Clusters
* Diane Cotter, accidental activist, becoming next Erin Brockovich https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15550/
* Meet The Criminals: PFOA And PFOS https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15552/
* Ammo Please-How Lion Steadfast Tencate & Milliken lied to America’s firefighters https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15566/
* DuPont Buys Your Lunch And Gives You Cancer - With Blind Loyalty From The Union (IAFF) for Dessert https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15553/
* Cancer Spouse Against Corporations ~ and Their Pocket Firefighter Union https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15558/
* Truth On Fire - Rejected and defeated, Diane Cotter rose from ashes to discover carcinognes in firefighter turnout gear https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15560/
* Particle Accelerator for Firefighters Accelerated the Case for PFAS https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15562/
* Firefighters Risk Their Lives Before Fire ~ Wearing 14,000 times over safe levels of PFAS https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15563/
* DuPont, TenCate, and Lion Play Chemical Wack-A-Mole with Firefighters Health https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15567/
* Toxic Safety Of 1.3 Million Firefighters Depends on new IAFF president and watchful eye of a cancer spouse https://healthylivingmagazine.us/Articles/15585/?fbclid=IwAR0pa9q03wSKs0ipVWXTvUlmF4MQONyqrmgB5UDW-vreMt9mOcnHHIsMisg
************
March
Chief Bobby Halton - Known and Unknown https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/editors-opinion-known-and-unknown/?fbclid=IwAR1OdgHFv3b0pq8Dp4ezWP0zFFwW3CFnhTTKO21m2y4SIcvNRMAfyU9U63k
************
JUNE
Hank Investigates: PFAS in Firefighters Gear
BY HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN https://whdh.com/news/hank-investigates-pfas-in-firefighters-gear/?fbclid=IwAR0dNJWpJYUiYEoLGAkOk_s4u7sEVoYtjLKjgSmXM62Be1AGZkcP78-qQGk
Sharon Lerner - The Intercept FIREFIGHTERS DENIED COVERAGE BY VETERANS AFFAIRS AFTER EXPOSURE TO PFAS FIREFIGHTING FOAM
https://theintercept.com/2021/06/05/pfas-firefighting-foam-veterans-afff/
Fire Engineering - Jim Burneka Interviews Diane Cotter - National Firefighter Cancer Symposium
https://www.fireengineering.com/health-safety/aps-radio-diane-cotter/#gref
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JULY
Jim Burneka The 25 Live, Interviews Lt. Bryan Goodman, author of ‘DEFENSELESS’
https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/episode-95-bryan-goodman/
Firefighters face hurdles in quest for PFAS-free gear
https://www.eenews.net/articles/firefighters-face-hurdles-in-quest-for-pfas-free-gear/
*********************************************************************
EWG Inaugural PFAS Conference: kEYNOTE SPEAKER eD kELLY - iaff gENERAL pRESIDENT!!
https://www.pfasconf.org/home
Watch President Kelly’s full testimony here:
https://www.facebook.com/IAFFonline/posts/4154048937964533
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iaff CALL TO ACTION: COMMENT ON PROPOSED TIA 1594 ON NFPA 1971
On this week’s Humpday Hangout, Frank Ricci talks with Jim Burneka and Dr. Graham Peaslee about the NFPA open comment period for protective clothing.
Frank Ricci, “well, to back up a little cause you said “the IFF Resolution” - it’s important to say, and while I played a small role in that – it’s important to say that the IFF – while they’re a champion in this now – which I think is great, they were brought here kicking and screaming by Diane – who’s been the moral compass for the fire service on this issue. So- I believe that the bulk of that policy pressure came from Diane- telling her story and not caring how crazy we all thought she was when she was bringing this to us – so my hat’s off to Diane, and it’s great now that the IFF is taking a watchdog role cause that’s supposed to be the union’s job is to be the watchdog for their members – but we can’t forget the history that – that watchdog (IFF) was being walked by the chemical companies they were supposed to be watching – and that they were cashing their checks.”
AUGUST
8.25.2021 https://www.fireengineering.com/hangouts/humpday-hangout-forever-chemicals-lawsuit-tunnel-to-towers-more/#gref
On this week’s Humpday Hangout, Frank Ricci and P.J. Norwood speak with Jonathan Levine as partner of Pritzker Levine, LLP, and Rick Seal “of Counsel” Pritzker Levine, LLP, a retired San Jose (CA) battalion chief, about a lawsuit concerning forever chemicals and the effects on firefighters.
SEPTEMBER
FIRE ENGINEERING - NFPA Rejects Appeal from IAFF on Firefighter PPE and PFAS
Effort to Rid Fire Gear of ‘Forever Chemicals’ Fails Key Vote - BLOOMBERG NEWS ANDREW WALLENDER
Budget reconciliation bill contains $80M to help firefighters purchase PFAS-free gear - AMY CHERRY WDEL NEWS
KILDEE SECURES $80 MILLION FOR FIREFIGHTERS TO PURCHASE PFAS-FREE EQUIPMENT
IAFF: Want to Meet a “Rock Star”? by ERIC LAMAR
https://ericlamardc.medium.com/iaff-want-to-meet-a-rock-star-2ade12631237
JIM POLITO - WORCESTER WTAG iHEART RADIO / IS BEING A HERO A TOXIC JOB?
podcast:
OCTOBER
10.1. 2021 the toxic job of being a hero by DAVID FERRY
MEN’S HEALTH MAGAZINE
https://www.menshealth.com/health/a37624731/cancer-firefighter-gear-pfas/
article here without paywall (used in 2022 testimony) https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/cmte_testimony/2022/hgo/1SFEAf6v-L2nGrgUnti8fPAoCVCeytiXm.pdf
10.1. 2021 THE FIREFIGHTER PODCAST WITH FDNY’S ROB SERRA
https://thefirefighters.us/diane-cotter-inside-the-fight-to-protect-firefighters-from-harmful-chemicals-in-their-gear-tenacity-a-family-of-firefighters/?fbclid=IwAR3hgo3YtdFMgWFSbDr2s-uvYBo8y_0mlQqUPC9hnIbPe1HtPIpDUUQA-gg
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5YTNaLaZNbHpS3LM6XizGB
10.21.2021 POP IT WORCESTER PODCAST - and worcester magazine
https://popitworcester.libsyn.com/diane-cotter-on-the-toxic-job-of-being-a-hero
NOVEMBER
https://events.brothershelpingbrothers.org/ffhw2021/ This was the first FIREFIGHTER ‘PFASPALOOZA’ HOSTED BY OUR FRIEND AND ALLY JIM BURNEKA AND HIS TEAM AT BROTHERS HELPING BROTHERS. KEYNOTE by ROBERT BILOTT !!!
Historien om konen til den kræftsyge brandmand, der fik en hel industri til at tabe kæben by Mette Mayli Albaek
15,000 e-mails…
11.11.21
WORCESTER TELEGRAM - SPECIAL REPORT by Brad Petrishen
https://www.telegram.com/story/news/2021/11/11/enemy-up-close-cancer-stricken-worcester-firefighter-paul-cotter-and-wife-diane-cotter-suspect-gear/6109633001/?fbclid=IwAR03b9EQ6qWfpE8yvwmT9UKKBJB0VJzuMsiTYsNbxR-Q3acVxFH2TA_NPjI
https://www.dropbox.com/s/lii5psi7uolnetc/Cancer-stricken%20Worcester%20firefighter%20Paul%20Cotter%20wife%20Diane%20%20suspect%20gear.pdf?dl=0&fbclid=IwAR0QbDnq5zoKf8JXdEgO3ZHsGcEAKRlRKe5V_6AftqSfaUJIRIL4TTVlzAk
Firefighters praise passage of ‘Build Back Better’ bill that includes $95M for safe gear - KAREN HENSEL
https://wsvn.com/news/politics/firefighters-praise-passage-of-build-back-better-bill-that-includes-95m-for-safe-gear/?fbclid=IwAR23Fzg30FzGRELUD6HQD4D2MM-aAtjhKzKDQxzmJ7xQPFsV8AJGGY6e7jU
DECEMBER
December 17, 2021 Researchers Win $900K Grant to Protect Health and Safety of Firefighters
https://www.uml.edu/news/stories/2021/firefightingfoam.aspx
https://www.lastcallfoundation.org/
Disposition of Fluorine on New Firefighter Turnout Gear
December 27, 2021 the latest research, supported by the IAFF, was published in Environmental Science & Technology.
Firefighter turnout gear is essential for reducing occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals during training and fire events.
2022
JANUARY
January 18, 2022 Indiana firefighters could get annual blood testing for PFAS under proposed pilot program
January 21, 2022 IAFF General President Ed Kelly Announces Partnership with Environmental Working Group and IAFF PFAS Partnership https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=5041402272590868&extid=NS-UNK-UNK-UNK-IOS_GK0T-GK1C&ref=sharing
January 26, 2022 Fire Engineering Humpday Hangout: Research Update on ‘Forever Chemicals’
Below are Dr. Peaslee’s replies to some questions posed online.
Q. How many pounds of carbon, VOC, and PAH are in a firefighters’ gear after the average house fire?
A. I am guessing the turnout gear weighs about 20-lbs for jacket and pants, and that the polymeric PFAS that make up the waterproofing on the jacket could easily be a pound or two of that weight. All of which would be released to the environment after a few decades in the landfill. The weight of the gasses, black carbon, VOCs, and PAHs that accumulate on the textiles would probably be measured in the fraction of an ounce range…gaseous combustion products, although terribly toxic, and gases and occupy large volumes with small weight…so even very dirty gear won’t have as much as an intentional waterproofing agent in the textile. Of course you don’t want to be exposed to either…
https://www.fireengineering.com/hangouts/humpday-hangout-research-update-on-forever-chemicals/#gref
PFAS Update: State Regulation of PFAS in Firefighting Foam and Equipment
January 29, 2022 Station Pride New IAFF-Backed Fire Gear PFAS Study by Oregon State Discovers 100-Times More Volatile PFAS than Previously Known. https://station-pride.com/2022/01/29/new-iaff-backed-fire-gear-pfas-study-by-oregon-state-discovers-100-times-more-volatile-pfas-than-previously-known/
Q&A with Dr. Graham Peaslee on New Oregon State University PFAS Gear Study https://station-pride.com/2022/01/29/qa-with-dr-graham-peaslee-on-new-oregon-state-university-pfas-gear-study/?fbclid=IwAR2rKvcKqa-mQpgSgF8pP-GQvt7q83Hr_6H1CuD9OAbQH5SnltRxecK3hdA
2022
PFAS Update: State Regulation of PFAS in Firefighting Foam and Equipment
January 29, 2022 Station Pride New IAFF-Backed Fire Gear PFAS Study by Oregon State Discovers 100-Times More Volatile PFAS than Previously Known. https://station-pride.com/2022/01/29/new-iaff-backed-fire-gear-pfas-study-by-oregon-state-discovers-100-times-more-volatile-pfas-than-previously-known/
Q&A with Dr. Graham Peaslee on New Oregon State University PFAS Gear Study https://station-pride.com/2022/01/29/qa-with-dr-graham-peaslee-on-new-oregon-state-university-pfas-gear-study/?fbclid=IwAR2rKvcKqa-mQpgSgF8pP-GQvt7q83Hr_6H1CuD9OAbQH5SnltRxecK3hdA
FEBRUARY 15, 2022
15 MASSACHUESTTS FIREFIGHTERS FILE LAWSUITS AGAINS MAKERS OF GEAR AND AFFF.
BRAD PETRISHEN
https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/594771-firefighters-sue-over-forever-chemicals-in-gear
https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/mass-firefighters-raise-alarm-about-forever-chemicals-in-gear-firefighting-foam/2648128/
Mass. Firefighters Raise Alarm About ‘Forever Chemicals' in Gear, Firefighting Foam
STATEMENT OF ED KELLY IN SUPPORT OF FIREFIGTERS LAWSUITS :
https://www.firefighternation.com/news/statement-iaff-general-president-pfas-lawsuits/
MARCH 3, 2022 WENDY MURPHY – BOSTON HERALD
Wendy Murphy: Firefighters face perilous cancer risk
BY WENDY MURPHY
March 3, 2022 at 7:00 a.m.
https://www.bostonherald.com/2022/03/03/wendy-murphy-firefighters-face-perilous-cancer-risk/
MARCH 4, 2022
BRIAN ROSS INVESTIGATES WITH IAFF GP ED KELLY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGSpcU8z7ng
PFAS Class Limited to Certain Ohio Residents by Federal Judge
March 7, 2022, 6:41 PM
Ohio Residents Win Cert. In PFAS Suit Against 3M, Others
https://www.law360.com/articles/1471716/ohio-residents-win-cert-in-pfas-suit-against-3m-others
https://www.givengain.com/ap/kathleen-crosby-raising-funds-for-last-call-foundation/
3rd NATIONAL PFAS CONFERENCE – NORTH CAROLINA.
https://pfasmeeting.wordpress.ncsu.edu/working-agenda/
April 16, 2022
Legislature completes report on 'forever chemicals' said to cause cancer in firefighters; Worcester part of ongoing lawsuit
Worcester firefighters part of protective-gear lawsuit
Fw: STATEMENT OF GEOFF DIEHL ON FIREFIGHTERS AND PFAS CHEMICALS
-----------------------------------------------------
Brad Petrishen Reporter, Worcester Telegram & Gazette
3M Responds to Brad Petrishen’s article:
https://darik.news/massachusetts/worcester-firefighter-only-3m-defendant-company-in-pfas-lawsuit-to-offer-comment/202202514393.html
Worcester Firefighter Only 3M Defendant Company in PFAS Lawsuit to Offer Comment
February 21, 2022, 10:07 PM
https://www.boston.com/news/environment/2022/05/25/pfas-lawsuit-attorney-general-maura-healey/
healey acts on pfas… claims firefighters lawsuit as her motivation… it’s a crock of shit.. she had YEARS to act.. purely a political move
June 15, 2022
https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/2022/06/epa-toxic-forever-chemicals-levels-drinking-water-should-be-much
EPA: Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ levels in drinking water should be much lower
WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group today applauds the Environmental Protection Agency for proposing new lifetime health advisories, or LHAs, that suggest levels of four “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in drinking water should be significantly lower.
The EPA on Wednesday announced updated LHAs for PFOA and PFOS, the two most notorious PFAS. It also announced new LHAs for PFBS and Gen-X. LHAs provide information on contaminants in drinking water that can harm people throughout their lives.
The four LHAs are:
0.004 parts per trillion, or ppt, for PFOA
0.02 ppt for PFOS
10 ppt for GenX chemicals
2,000 ppt for PFBS
Previously, the EPA had set an LHA for PFOA and PFOS of 70 ppt.
June 2022 PFAS CONFERENCE –
FIREFIGHTERS REALLY HIT IT HOME… KEVIN FERRARA AND JASON BURNS !!
https://pfasproject.com/conference-presentations/2022-pfas-conference/
JULY 1, 2022: WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION DECLARES FIREFIGHTING A CARCINOGENIC OCCUPATON:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(22)00390-4/fulltext?rss=yes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1470204522003904
July 26th : Worcester Telegram – Brad Petrishen:
23 more Mass. firefighters including 5 from Worcester file suit over PFAS in gear, foams
July 27, 2022 : Fire Engineering Humpday Hangout:
https://www.fireengineering.com/hangouts/humpday-hangout-forever-chemicals/
At approximately 28 mm Editor in Chief Bobby Halton announces “ not only was she alone, she was vilified and persecuted, and there were organized attacks against her – I know for a fact – because I was cajoled to join and said no that’s not for me “….. this was John Granby of lion gear effort at iaff headquarters in DC.
Also during this segment our Documentary - BURNED by Elijay Yetter-Bowman is revealed with Dr. Graham Peaslee.
Report calls for expanded PFAS testing for firefighters, others with elevated exposure
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report offers guidance for clinical testing and treatment
Jul 28, 2022
NASEM REPORT. Diane Cotter Serves as Firefighter Liason:
https://medium.com/@dianecotter/statement-nas-pfas-town-hall-555af226c2ff
August 17th 2022.. bobby halton drops atomic bomb
"... one quick point, not only was she alone, she was persecuted - and yet persistent - and she was vilified. There were organized attacks - and I know that for a fact because I was cajoled to join one - and I said, "no I'm not interested". And so there were people who were trying to discredit her relentlessly.
Chief Bobby Halton, Editor in Chief - Fire Engineering
July 27, 2022
Humpday Hangout with Frank Ricci and Pj Norwood
Elijah Yetter-Bowman releases the trailer to the documentary, ‘BURNED’.
https://etherealfilms.org/burned/
Chief Bobby Halton: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=421383470015983
https://www.fireengineering.com/hangouts/humpday-hangout-forever-chemicals/
IAFF ANNOUNCES GUIDELINES FOR TURNOUT GEAR WITH METRO CHIEFS ASSOCIATION:
Kansas firefighter among early whistleblowers of PFAS in protective gear
by: Hannah Adamson
Posted: Aug 25, 2022 / 10:11 PM CDT
Updated: Aug 26, 2022 / 06:47 AM CDT
PFAS AFFF MDL: Government Contractor Defense Updates
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
https://www.natlawreview.com/article/pfas-afff-mdl-government-contractor-defense-updates
EPA ANNNOUNCES PFOA AND PFOS TO BE DESIGNATED ‘HAZARDOUS’ TO AID IN SUPERFUND CLEANUPS. DOES NOTHING FOR FIREFIGHTERS WEARING STAGGERING AMOUNTS OF THESE CHEMICALS IN THEIR GEAR.
EPA hazardous substance proposal holds ‘forever chemicals’ polluters accountable
sept 9, 2022
Mayor Raymond Mariano : Raymond V. Mariano: Why isn’t Worcester doing more to protect firefighters?
Raymond V. Mariano
The insurance company representing turnout gear manufacturer Fire Dex LLC is looking to exclude the claims brought by plaintiffs:
A Roadmap to Insurance Coverage for the Mother of Toxic Torts: PFAS
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/a-roadmap-to-insurance-coverage-for-the-9877551/
The insurance company representing turnout gear manufacturer Fire Dex LLC is looking to exclude the claims brought
by plaintiffs:
JUSTIA:
https://dockets.justia.com/docket/ohio/ohndce/1:2022cv01087/288667
Admiral Insurance Company v. Fire Dex, LLC
Plaintiff: Admiral Insurance Company
Defendant: Fire Dex, LLC
Case Number: 1:2022cv01087
Filed: June 21, 2022
Court: US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio
Presiding Judge: Pamela A Barker
Nature of Suit: Insurance
Cause of Action: 28 U.S.C. § 1332 Diversity-Insurance Contract
Jury Demanded By: Plaintiff
RSS RSS Track this Docket
Docket Report
This docket was last retrieved on June 21, 2022. A more recent docket listing may be available from PACER.
September 16, 2022. 3M LOSES CONTRACTOR DEFENSE!
Firefighters Protest in Washington, D.C., Calling for EPA to Address Toxic PFAS Chemicals
9.20.2022
https://www.iaff.org/news/iaff-calls-on-epa-to-protect-against-toxins/
“For many years we thought our cancers were caused by smoke, off-gassing from burning combustibles, building debris,” Kelly said. “Now, we know our own gear is part of that problem. The very thing that is supposed to be keeping us safe is costing us our lives.”
Kelly explained that PFAS (or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are used in the protective layers of fire fighter turnout gear and are now known to cause cancer. Also called “forever chemicals,” PFAS is a human-made chemical that cannot be broken down and has been found in groundwater, animals, and humans.
Kelly credited Diane Cotter – who was at the rally with her husband, Worcester, MA Local 1009 fire fighter Paul Cotter – for doggedly pursuing answers after suspecting that turnout gear was behind Paul’s cancer diagnosis in late 2014. Her efforts led to a study, conducted by Notre Dame nuclear physicist Graham Peaslee, Ph.D., that found dangerous levels of carcinogens in the protective gear.
“We need to extinguish cancer and the threat of PFAS for everyone,” said Kelly.“The oath we took was to protect all of you. [But] our fight is to save the lives of everybody, not just fire fighters, everybody…including our own children, our own grandchildren.”
Also joining the rally was Jason Burns, current fire fighter and former president of Fall River, MA Local 1314, who said several members of his affiliate have developed and succumbed to occupational cancer.
Industry hack still doing his grind:
IAFF Responds to Fire Engineering Webcast, ‘Firefighting PPE Evaluations: From Need to Selection’
In The Clearing Stands A Boxer ….
Pat Elder, Military Poisons
https://www.militarypoisons.org/latest-news/in-the-clearing-stands-a-boxer
October:
https://www.eenews.net/articles/biden-praises-firefighters-calls-on-congress-to-do-more/
Biden praises firefighters, calls on Congress to do more
https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/hr2499/BILLS-117hr2499rfs.pdf
https://www.firehero.org/usfa-summit/
https://www.iaff.org/magazine/2022-summer/
NOVEMBER 27,
Henry Schwan, Worcester Telegram and Gazette
Firefighters concerned about PFAS; Worcester Fire Department takes steps…
DECEMBER 1, 2022.
CONGRESS PASSES LEGISLATION TO PROTECT FIRE FIGHTERS FROM PFAS EXPOSURE
This is the bill written by Senator Gary Peters and Senator Hassan in 2019. The language for PPE was not part of the original packet. Yet, due to the work of Kristen Mello, PFAS Activist of WRAFT who held the line with Senator Peters Chief of Staff, Yogin Kothari, the language for PPE was added via supporting documents from Diane Cotter. https://dianecotter.medium.com/in-response-to-senator-gary-peters-announcement-protecting-firefighters-from-adverse-substances-50ceb945c333
December 19, 2022.
We lost our Hero. Bobby Halton, Fire Engineering Editor in Chief, Passes Away
https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/bobby-halton-obituary/#gref
December 20, 2022. On Tuesday, December 20, 2022, the President signed into law:
S. 231, the “Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances Act” or the “PFAS Act,” which requires the Department of Homeland Security to develop guidance to protect firefighters and other emergency response personnel from exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances from firefighting foam, commonly referred to as PFAS;
12.23.2022
Signed into Law: Shaheen Reflects on NH, National Security Priorities in FY2023 NDAA
In addition, Senator Shaheen added an amendment requesting the Department of Defense to prohibit DOD from purchasing PFAS-laden firefighting turnout gear after October 1, 2026. This follows Shaheen-led efforts to expand blood testing and treatment for firefighters exposed to PFAS and a similar amendment she secured to ban the use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam in the FY 2020 NDAA. Senator Shaheen also included an amendment to clarify in statute that the National Guard can access Defense Environmental Restoration Program (DERP) funds for PFAS cleanup at state-owned Guard facilities, which will save the Guard millions in funds they have previously been forced to divert from training and operations. Finally, Senator Shaheen successfully led on enhanced transparency by ensuring the Department of the Air Force is sharing PFAS test results with impacted communities.
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2023
JANUARY Firefigher Cancer Support Network Sends Worldwide Message about PFAS in Turnout Gear…
https://firefightercancersupport.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/FFCancer_PFAS-Fact-Sheet-2022-2.pdf
'Firefighter’s hero': Diane Cotter featured in PFAS documentary produced by actor Mark Ruffalo !!!
Brad Petrishen Telegram & Gazette January 16, 2023
Wall Street Journal, Kris Mayer ~Firefighters Union Pushes to Rid Protective Gear of ‘Forever Chemicals’
In reversal, International Association of Fire Fighters is sounding alarm to members
INTERNATIONAL ASSOICAITON OF FIREFIGHTERS HOSTS THE WORLD PREMIER OF ‘BURNED ~ Protecting the Protectors ‘
https://www.iaff.org/news/documentary-sounds-the-alarm-on-pfas-in-turnout-gear/
IAFF ANNOUNCES LEGAL EFFORT TO GET PFAS OUT OF FIRE PROTECTION GEAR
https://www.iaff.org/news/social-media-reacts-to-pfas-announcement/
ALTS 2023 General Session
General President Edward A. Kelly's announced during today's #ALTS23 General Session that the IAFF has retained three nationally recognized law firms to change regulatory standards, demand PFAS-free gear, and be available to be retained by members and families seeking compensation for PFAS-related illness. Watch:
https://www.pfaslawfirms.com/what-is-pfas/
FEBRUARY
PFAS Science Ruling for Firefighting Foam Cases Coming Soon
MARCH
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS -
2023 winter - TAKING ON CANCER
https://www.iaff.org/maga/zine/2023-winter/
PRESIDENT BIDEN HEADLINES IAFF LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
https://www.iaff.org/news/president-biden-headlines-iaff-legislative-conference/
Biden’s Visit To Firefighters Spotlights Union’s Calls To Replace Toxic Protective Gear
!!!!!! IAFF FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST NFPA !!!!!!
MARCH 16, 2023
IAFF FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST NFPA OVER GEAR TESTING STANDARD
https://www.iaff.org/news/iaff-files-lawsuit-against-nfpa-to-remove-pfas-from-gear/
Nation’s largest fire union sues entity that sets standards for safety over PFAS requirement
IAFF Sues NFPA Over Standard Mandating PFAS in PPE
https://www.firelawblog.com/2023/03/16/iaff-sues-nfpa-over-standard-mandating-pfas-in-ppe/
Firefighters' Union Files Lawsuit to Remove Cancer Causing ‘Forever Chemicals' From Gear
International Association of Fire Fighters files lawsuit in Dedham to remove ‘cancer-causing’ PFAS chemicals from gear
IAFF Files Suit to Halt Toxic Turnout Gear Testing Standard
Firefighters file lawsuit over health concerns from safety gear
Firefighters' union files lawsuit in Massachusetts, claims protective gear is deadly
Firefighters Union Files Suit Over Toxic PFAS in Protective Gear
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WORCESTER — Diane Cotter has a big event coming up.
On Sunday, June 11, The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory will host the state premiere of “Burned: Protecting the Protectors,” a documentary about harmful “forever” chemicals in firefighter turnout gear.
NFPA responds to lawsuit filed over safety gear health concerns
“The IAFF’s recent public comments about the lawsuit falsely portray NFPA, our standards development process, and the role the IAFF itself plays in that process. We won’t allow our organization, our people, or our valued volunteers to be disparaged or our long-standing process to be politicized by a meritless lawsuit.”
THE THINGS WE ALL CARRY - PODCAST, BRENDAN STACKPOLE INTERVIEW WITH ELIJAH YETTER-BOWMAN of BURNED
https://thethingsweallcarry.podbean.com/e/burned/
NFPA calls IAFF lawsuit over PFAS in bunker gear misguided, ill-informed, meritless March 30, 2023
"NFPA’s process is the gold standard for standards development and involves a proven, consensus-based approach," said Vice President Lorraine Carli
Consumer Fraud PFAS Lawsuits Update: Two Cases Dismissed
https://www.natlawreview.com/article/consumer-fraud-pfas-lawsuits-update-two-cases-dismissed
International Fire and Safety Journal - Interview with Elijah Yetter-Bowman
APRIL
Measures to spotlight health risks from PFAS in firefighter gear close to becoming Indiana law
STEPHANIE WHITE - FIRE ENGINEERING - CHANGE THE HABIT
WBUR, Gabrielle Emanuelle - FIRefighters and their families are on the front lines of a battle with 'forever chemicals-
https://www.wbur.org/news/2023/04/18/firefighters-pfas-forever-chemicals-massachusetts
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH DIANE COTTER AND ELIJAH YETTER-BOWMAN OF BURNED: PROTECTING THE PROTECTORS
By sgarofalo@thehanovertheatre.org April 21, 2023
‘BURNED’ - SCREENING AT UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME’ `w Dr. Graham Peaslee, Attorney Robert Bilott, Elijah Yetter-Bowman https://wsbt.com/news/local/documentary-features-university-of-notre-dame-professors-pfas-research
Notre Dame News - Expert panel to discuss PFAS in firefighting gear with documentary film screening
FDIC - INDIANA PREMIER OF BURNED WITH Dr. GRAHAM PEASLEE and ELIJAH YETTER-BOWMAN ~
https://www.fdic.com/speakers/graham-peaslee
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MAY
Fire Control Business, Kidde-Fenwal, Files for Bankruptcy amid Rising PFAS Litigation
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/fire-control-business-kidde-fenwal-7442980/
Protecting the protectors: URI to host film screening and discussion on impact of PFAS in firefighting - May 4th Intl Firefighter Day
Shaheen Statement on Findings in New Firefighter Turnout Gear PFAS Report She Commissioned in FY20 NDAA
MAY 01, 2023
May 16, 2023 … we’re gonna need a bigger boat.
Not just firefighters: Experts say other workers likely exposed to PFAS in gear, uniforms and beyond
May 20, 2023
Illinois City to Replace Firefighter PPE with PFAS Free Gear
May 14, 2023
Interview with Tim Murray, CEO Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce
Lawsuit: Veteran’s death linked to toxic chemicals he used during career
Stars and Stripes May 29th - David Wilson
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JUNE 2023 big.. big month.
Massive Court Case Suggests ‘Forever Chemical’ Manufacturers Hid Health Risks for Decades Consumer Reports - Lauren Kirchner
Plaintiffs representing millions of people allege harm from PFAS contamination stemming from toxic firefighting foam
***
Chemours, DuPont, Corteva Settle PFAS Litigation for $1.185 Billion
Lawsuits say chemical-laden firefighting foam contaminated drinking water
By Kris Maher https://www.wsj.com/articles/chemours-dupont-corteva-settle-pfas-litigation-for-1-185-billion-9edf9078?st=ozxqjofefysvnll&fbclid=IwAR3imtlmBX0o16v3y-KdpQ-JfyY-sI6t7QxXNQ8GiAE5LCUMTT5R196YumA
***
Firm Retention Summary: Kidde-Fenwal
This is a summary of a request from Kidde-Fenwal to hire Sullivan & Cromwell as counsel, filed June 2 with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Wilmington, Del.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/firm-retention-summary-kidde-fenwal-bc507d30
Local firefighters speak against becoming ‘human guinea pigs’ due to PFAS exposure
https://portcitydaily.com/latest-news/2023/06/04/local-firefighters-speak-against-becoming-human-guinea-pigs-due-to-pfas-exposure/ Amy Passaretti Willis
***
Global brands lied about toxic "forever chemicals," new study claims
CBS Moneywatch, Irina Ivanova and Tony Dokoupil CBS Mornings
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/3m-dupont-pfas-forever-chemicals-hid-evidence-study/
https://annalsofglobalhealth.org/articles/10.5334/aogh.4013
*****
‘Burned: Protecting the Protectors,’ firefighter cancer film screening in Worcester MassLive by Dave Thomson
*****
A group of firefighters say some of their gear contains PFAS and may cause cancer
June 13, 20234:21 PM ET Heard on All Things Considered By Gabrielle Emanuel
*****
At Hanover Theatre screening, Diane Cotter lauded for work on PFAS and firefighter gear
Telegram & Gazette
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JULY
The exhibition at the Pfas of the Italian Fire Brigade by Laura Fazzini and Francesca Cicculli
Perfluoroalkyl substances toxic to humans are present in both suits and fire-fighting foams, but the Ministry of the Interior does not start the investigations necessary for the safety of firefighters
https://irpimedia.irpi.eu/pfas-vigili-del-fuoco/
PHILIDELPHIA INQUIRER
THE BURNING QUESTION… IN-DEPTH LOOK AT FIREFIGHTERS CANCERS AND PFAS.
By Barbara Laker and David Gambacorta
https://www.inquirer.com/news/inq2/firefighter-turnout-bunker-gear-causing-cancer-pfas-chemicals-20230718.html
CONGRESS SEEKS TO SPEND 100 MILLION TO SPONSOR BILL FOR FIREFIGHTER TURNOUT GEAR…
REP DEBBIE DINGLE INTRODUCES FIREFIGHTERS PFAS ALTERNATIVE ACT LEGISLATION
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) along with Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sam Graves (R-MO), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Dina Titus (D-NV), Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) today introduced the bipartisan Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act), to support development of next-generation PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters and better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work
https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4416
PFAS are forever?
How the chemical industry is fighting back against regulation
https://corporateeurope.org/en/pfas-are-forever AND https://corporateeurope.org/en/2023/07/are-pfas-new-tobacco
AUGUST:
Having Coffee With . . . Graham Peaslee
Tackling the challenge of ‘forever chemicals’
https://magazine.nd.edu/stories/having-coffee-with-graham-peaslee/
IRELAND !! With IAFF GP Edward A. Kelly and Dr. Graham Peaslee ~
Hive Cancer Support to host landmark US documentary on ‘forever chemicals’ at Feile ‘23
A Derry based cancer charity is screening a landmark US documentary about ‘forever chemicals’.
PODCAST with Dr. Graham Peaslee and Jake of 3 Point Firefighter Parts 1 and 2 . Wow and did I learn stuff !!!
Historic 3M settlement gets preliminary court approval ~ The new lede / ewg
https://www.thenewlede.org/2023/08/historic-3m-pfas-settlement-gets-preliminary-court-approval/
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SEPTEMBER
3M’s Revised PFAS Settlement Includes Atypical Liability Terms
Bloomberg Law ~ Pat Rizzuto 9.6.2023
In the settlement, 23 Republican and Democratic attorneys general negotiated with 3M a new “Protection Against Claims-Over” provision that revises the previous “Contribution and Indemnity” section.
The changes prevent 3M from giving water utilities money through the settlement and then in the future demanding the utilities give the money back if the company is successfully sued by other parties for drinking water-related harm, Pawa said.
Associated Press ~ Firefighters fear the toxic chemicals in their gear could be contributing to cancer cases. Micahel Casey:
9.19.2023
https://www.dearchiefs.com/ Audra & Chelsi|9/19/2023
In this gripping episode, we sit down for an enlightening conversation with Diane Cotter, exploring her impactful journey through firefighter cancer and the extraordinary efforts she made to support her husband in the face of his cancer diagnosis.
OCTOBER
Hardwick PFAS Case: Pivotal Oral Argument Sees Pushback On Plaintiffs’ Arguments https://www.cmbg3.com/hardwick-pfas-case-pivotal-oral-argument-sees-pushback-on-plaintiffs-arguments
3M Set to Oppose Approval of Huge Class in PFAS Case at 6th Cir
NOVEMBER
IT’S DONE. THE ‘FALLACIOUS’ ZENON LIGHT TEST IS DEAD.
NFPA Impact: Standard eliminates moisture-barrier tes
NFPA Impact: Standard eliminates moisture-barrier test
Removal of the xenon arc light test, not just as a stand-alone test method as proposed in the first draft of NFPA 1970, but also from the proposed multi-conditioning procedure (9.1.2.1)
Additionally, the committee substantively changed the multi-conditioning procedure, which they described as intended to replicate the wear and tear a typical outer shell may experience (9.1.21)
Added explanatory material for the definition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), explaining that the measurement of PFAS in the standard is performed to report the total levels of PFAS in protective clothing materials and measuring levels of specific PFAS chemicals against restricted substance levels (A.3.3.133)
Added specific testing requirements to verify a manufacturer’s PFAS-free gear claim. (6.5.1)
Added a requirement to make reported test results available as part of the user information. (6.5.12, 8.14.3, & Table 8.21(a))
Revised the procedure and application for contamination removal efficiency testing introduced in the first draft (9.9.3)
Updated a list of restricted substances (8.21, 9.10)
Added a more extensive listing of requirements for per- and polyfluorinated compounds, including tests for total fluorine and total extractable organic fluorine (8.21, 9.10)
Added of a new test method for liquid barrier performance, as measured by impact penetration and hydrostatic penetration, to protect against bloodborne pathogens (9.11)
Removed the tests for liquid repellency and for leaching of material substances (9.76 and 9.77 in the first daft)
November 6, 2023 at Massachusetts State House ~ Boston, MA
Senator Mike Moore, Worcester, MA ~ Hosts Screening of ‘BURNED-Protecting the Protectors’ on Beacon Hill.
Calls for Attorney General to Investigate Suing Gear Manufacturers.
Callie Lyons - First Lady of the Global PFAS Calamity ~ Investigating your environment ~
November 28, 3M, DuPont defeat massive class action over forever chemicals
The Cincinnati, Ohio-based 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals vacated a lower court's approval of the massive class action, which included virtually every resident of Ohio and put considerable legal pressure on the chemical manufacturers to settle the plaintiffs' claims.
DECEMBer
Ohio firefighter demands rehearing in PFAS class-action suit
Attorneys warned that a 6th Circuit ruling in favor of "forever chemicals" manufacturers violated the court's own precedent.
BY: ELLIE BORST 12/12/2023 01:35 PM EST
Almost 100 Mass. lawmakers sign on to plea to AG to join suit against makers of fire gear - Worcester Telegram, Kinda Borondy
“I worked relentlessly for five years to engage (former Attorney General) Maura Healey to file a suit against the manufacturers,” Cotter said, alleging that the former AG, “chose her political career over Massachusetts firefighters and the state’s taxpayers. She chose to do nothing about the turnout gear.”
In 2022, Healey did file suit against the makers of certain fire-retardant foams, claiming their use was detrimental to the environment.
“But she chose to sue because it’s an environmental issue rather than an IDLH, immediate danger to life or health for firefighters,” Cotter sa(id.
Colin A. Young | State House News Service : Colin missed that AG Healey stood down on this issue intentionally.
and… we end the year with…..
PEOPLE MAGAZINE !!
Firefighter's Cancer Leads Wife to Discovery of Toxic Gear Killing Heroes Across U.S.: ‘It’s Infuriating’
Since 2002 cancer has been responsible for the deaths of almost two out of every three firefighters, according to the International Association of Fire Fighters
By
Published on December 27, 2023
https://people.com/firefighters-cancer-leads-wife-to-discovery-of-toxic-gear-8420205
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2024
JANUARY 10, 2024 - CAPITOL HILL SCREENING OF BURNED, PROTECTING THE PROTECTORS,
Hosted by EWG, IAFF, Congressman Jim McGovern
Shaheen Urges Action to Eliminate PFAS from Firefighter Gear Following Findings in New NIST Report -
Open Democracy Andrew Kersley UK
Revealed: Environment Agency invested £15m in ‘forever chemical’ firms
Taxpayers’ money pumped into companies that produce PFAS, despite health and environmental warnings
Risking their lives ! Republic - American, by Levi Stanford - Multi part series - ‘THEIR STORIES’
https://www.rep-am.com/firefighter-danger/
Spotlight on America ~ Lisa Fletcher and Andrea Nejman
SPOTLIGHT ON AMERICA ~ Lisa Fletcher:
Leaders in Congress push for action to protect fire fighters from cancer-causing chemicals McGovern is continuing his fight to do just that, backing legislation that would ban PFAS in firefighter gear. But for now, he's losing patience for the inaction in Washington.
"How the hell were we so complacent for all these years? It's gonna be something we look back on with great shame," he exclaimed. "I mean, what the hell are we waiting for?"
Shaheen urges action to eliminate PFAS from firefighter gear following new data on hazards https://dodfirenews.blogspot.com/2024/01/shaheen-urges-action-to-eliminate-pfas.html
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THE POISON DETECTIVES ~ Podcast Series by Sandra Bartlett for Canada’s National Observer
TRAILER
THE SECRET INGREDIENT * WHO’S MINDING THE STORE?
THE BEST REGULATIONS MONEY CAN BUY *
THEY DEVIL THEY KNEW * TOXIC JUSTICE
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MARCH
Sen. Booker, Rep. Soto float bill to compensate firefighters exposed to toxic chemicals https://nypost.com/2024/03/21/us-news/sen-booker-rep-soto-float-bill-to-compensate-firefighters-exposed-to-toxic-chemicals/
SPECTRUM NEWS ~ Devin Bates WORCESTER, Mass. - The wife of a former Worcester firefighter who has spent years sounding the alarm about an alleged presence of cancer-causing chemicals in firefighting gear believes change and accountability are closer than ever before.
The implications of National Institute of Standards and Technology’s groundbreaking study on PFAS in firefighter gear
by Iain Hoey for International Fire and Safety Journal
San Francisco Weighs Ban on PFAS in Firefighter Gear - San Francisco is considering an ordinance that would prohibit the city fire department from using turnout gear that contains PFAS.
Lawyers Say Firefighter Turnout Gear Lawsuits Require Separate Fact Sheets from AFFF and PFAS Water Exposure Claims
THE FIREFIGHTER SERIAL KILLER ~ Robert F. Kennedy Jr. with Diane Cotter https://open.spotify.com/episode/5UQY1NdlsK4U3FmikuKay1
‘RFK Jr Podcast’: Wife of Firefighter Stricken With Cancer Becomes PFAS Industry ‘Nightmare’ ~ Children’s Health Defense
APRIL
NEW EPA LIMITS FOR PFAS IN WATER ~PBS and EWG
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/what-new-epa-limits-on-forever-chemicals-mean-for-u-s-drinking-water
Firefighting Gear Without PFAS Heads to North American Cities- Pat Rizzuto / Bloomberg
Virginia Beach firefighters, family bring $1.5 billion PFAS exposure lawsuit against more than 20 companies
MAY
ken cook is having another episode…. WITH dIANE COTTER AND PETER ARLEIN ~
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkcWGH6x0pM
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Multidistrict PFAS Trials Foreseen in 2025 on Varied Issues -
THIS IS IMPORTANT TO THE PERSONAL INJURY PLAINTFFS AS WE SEE THE CANCERS THAT ARE COVERED IN THE BELLWETHER TRIALS AND THE PLANS FOR THOSE NOT COVERED.
Bloomberg News by Pat Rizzuto
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/environment-and-energy/multidistrict-pfas-trials-foreseen-into-2025-on-separate-issues
see also: TIMELINE NOW IN PLACE FOR DISCOVERY ETC…
Cancer is killing firefighters. So this city is going PFAS-free.
San Francisco is the first major American city to ban the substance from protective gear.
BURNED-PROTECTING THE PROTECTORS will be available free to the public on August 2nd, 2024: Life Scan Wellness Centers to Show ‘Burned’ Documentary ~
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZUKP7iheu0
JUNE
Diane Cotter’s Fight Against Firemen Cancer Epidemic
Kellen Jones for The Dallas Express ~ https://dallasexpress.com/profiles/diane-cotters-fight-against-firemen-cancer-epidemic/
Dangerous ‘forever chemicals’ absorb through human skin, study finds
More Than 4,000 CT Firefighters Sue 3M DuPont Over Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Turnout Gear Firefighter Nation
https://www.firefighternation.com/apparatus/over-4000-ct-firefighters-sue-3m-dupont-over-cancer-causing-chemicals-in-turnout-gear/
https://www.sgtlaw.com/media/press-releases/2024-06-25-silver-golub-teitell-files-lawsuit-connecticut-firefighters-pfas-protective-gear?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0CzAR0b99k09zDa7xANAcwP-DjUEg5i479xIYY9RdOGH41Fxk9bqjP-wQ_aem_sIySyaJPYfgUotGWNZGyOA
COMPLAINT: https://static.sgtlaw.com/docs/uniformed-professional-firefighters-v-3m-complaint.pdfScientists found another way we’re exposed to ‘forever chemicals’: Through our skin - Washington Post
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024003581
'Beyond disgraceful': Bill to protect firefighters from PFAS stalls in State House Brad Petrishen Worcester Telegram & Gazette July 12, 2024.
and… Senate leaders dismiss amendments targeting PFAS in firefighting gear https://www.telegram.com/story/news/local/2024/07/23/ma-senate-leaders-pfas-firefighting/74519072007/
JULY ~ we learn of the parameters regarding firefighter PFAS exposures and specific cancers in the personal injury MDL set by Judge Gergel : Pat Rizzuto for Bloomberg Law: Dispute on Strategy to Resolve PFAS Injury Claims Sent to Judge
Activist Diane Cotter Calls Out VP Harris Over PFAS Flipflop
Why, you ask? When I saw Kamala speaking to a large group of firefighters I recalled the day I lobbied on Capitol Hill, spoke with her receiving staff, left a 27 page packet. Her actions were no different from many - EXCEPT, I recalled the messages I received from firefighters in her Cali region showing me the comments said about me by and my claims in 2018/2019 by the highest ranking officer in the union in cali. We lost so many years to Schaitberger. This leader now understands. He’s told me so. Still I can’t express how angry it made me to see her YEARS later speaking on this. It’s personal of course. Yes, I undersatand it’s a good thing. We lost five years. Five entire years.
Kellen McGovern Jones - Investigative Reporter
https://dallasexpress.com/national/activist-diane-cotter-calls-out-vp-harris-over-pfas-flipflop/
…. CONNECTICUIT FIRE UNIONS FILE CLAIMS FOR MEMBERS - GROUNDBREAKING !!! SPECIFIC TO THE PFAS IN THE GEAR : https://www.fireengineering.com/apparatus-equipment/two-more-ct-fire-departments-sign-on-to-pfas-lawsuit-over-turnout-gear/
then this happens !!! LED BY sENATOR mIKE mOORE, THE hOUSE PASSES THE STRONGETST LANGUAGE IN THE NATION ON REMOVING PFAS FROM BUNKER GEAR !! the race is on !!
MA Senate passes ban on PFAS in firefighter turnout gear. Will House act?
August ……………… burned ~ protecting the protectors now free to the public : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZUKP7iheu0
CHIEF Todd LeDuc put on one hell of an event in Miami with the team for the global release https://x.com/ToddJLeDuc/status/1809283860502610343
“Burned” documentary sparks awareness about firefighting gear awash in carcinogenic water repellent chemicals: Spotlight on Chief Richard Birt Las Vegas Fire (ret’d) - and close personal friend of Mark Ruffalo :
August 1st:
IMMEDIATLY upon the signing of S.2902, the executive board of the PFFM, led by Rich MacKinnon, converted on the the House, the 23 hour seige of the WARDOGS will be a lesson in the history books of how this bill was passed (at least in my memoir it is).
A call to action by PFFM was put out and social media took up the challenge. Now, when I tell you there was tension I’m putting it mildly.. If you’ve eber been on the receiving end of a WARDOG stare down you’ll know what I’m talking about… these SOB’S did it..
Bill banning PFAS in firefighter gear passes House, on its way to governor !!! https://www.telegram.com/story/news/local/2024/08/01/bill-banning-pfas-in-firefighter-gear-passes-ma-house/74628940007/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0I_PN0pAhM56TWyEgqfsW3_gsz3YCpLCyopeYWfV2ZoM09-tBUM4-sQv8_aem_HYKWfQxjKWOQD1zobgGzxg
meanwhile… dALLAS eXPRESS ~ DuPont Claims No Responsibility Over PFAS in Firemen’s Gear Kellen McGovern Jones - Investigative Reporter
https://dallasexpress.com/business-markets/dupont-claims-no-responsibility-over-pfas-in-firemens-gear/
…DALLAS EXPRESS, KELLEN MCGOVERN JONES: NEW FIREFIGHTER SPECIFIC PFAS STUDY https://dallasexpress.com/state/texas-professor-leads-groundbreaking-pfas-study/
~~~~ signed !!! the strongest language in the nation !!! S.2902 … 7 YEARS IN THE MAKING !!!! PFAS IN TURNOUT GEAR OUTLAWED IN MASS/2027 !!!
https://www.telegram.com/story/news/state/2024/08/15/mass-pfas-ban-firefighting-gear-signing/74804204007/
Massachusetts to become first state to enforce PFAS ban in firefighting equipment https://www.boston25news.com/news/local/massachusetts-become-first-state-enforce-pfas-ban-firefighting-equipment/OGUEJNJD5VHU3NIM5CZMVESZQI/?link_source=ta_first_comment&taid=66be817c93b26400015d7444&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR02lxj85z14tK9u7WK_xVK2JjGjFD5xT1BQ4BwbGQHZzp-y85rJ6o01GtQ_aem_G89FCPYOuBJtgI7kWV4bQQ
and…https://www.wcvb.com/article/new-massachusetts-firefighter-gear-law-bans-pfas/61892046
and… https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/pfas-chemicals-ban-fire-gear-massachusetts/
AND IT’S ONLY AUGUST 21ST !!!
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22ND…. SIXDEGREES.ORG IS~~~ SHIPPING UPTA BOSTON ~~~~ with a focus on FIREFIGHTER MENTAL HEALTH !!!
An extraordinary effort by Kevin Bacon and his amazing team: Stacy Huston and Brigid Zuknick in colloboration with PFFM and IAFF !!! THANK YOU SPONSORS !!!! https://newslinklive.com/2024/08/18/activist-diane-cotter-will-join-kevin-bacons-sixdegrees-org-to-assemble-mental-health-kits-for-firefighters-in-boston/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3HzBwqPvB7
Friday, August 23rd, Tom Putnam for ~ The Guardian
Two states become first in US to ban use of PFAS in firefighters’ protective gear
SEPTEMBER
RICO !!!!!
‘PFAS . . . everywhere’: A Mass. class action lawsuit may set a new standard for damages
Environmental and industry groups are closely watching the case ahead of an expected ‘tsunami’ of PFAS lawsuits
RICO Ruling Reshapes PFAS Litigation
Fire engineering ~ humpday hangout; “Backroom deals in our backyards”
Miranda Spivack’s upcoming book on five accidental activists ~ with Frank Ricci, Pj Norwood, and Diane Cotter
https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/humpday-hangout-backroom-deals-in-our-backyards/
This story is part of HEATED’s series on Project 2025
by Arielle Samuelson for HEATED
If Project 2025’s proposals are made policy by the next conservative president, she said it would have “devastating effects” on the work of activists, scientists, and environmental groups that have worked for years to make incremental progress.
“We cannot afford to go back one step,” she said. “You can’t give up anything in this war.”
https://heated.world/p/magas-scariest-environmental-proposal
OCTOBER
Fall River firefighter wins years-long fight against PFAS in gear. What does he do now? Dan Medeiros for The Herald News
BEHIND THE SHIELD WITH JAMES GEERING ~ Diane Cotter
Activist Diane Cotter is calling out those whom she believes abandoned the fight to protect firefighters from cancer when it mattered most.
Kellen McGovern Jones for The Dallas Express ~
Cotter has set her aim on Vice President Kamala Harris and the former International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) leadership. She contends that they have ignored the dangers of cancer-causing chemicals in fire gear.
Eternal contaminants detected in firefighters' combat clothing
Analyses carried out on behalf of Enquête confirm the high presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in materials used to make firefighters' combat clothing, increasing the risk of cancer to which they are already overexposed due to their work.
https://ici.radio-canada.ca/info/long-format/2119707/contaminants-habits-pompiers-pfas-cancer Radio Canada by Sylvie Fournier