This week I presented a resolution to the House calling on the Office of the State Fire Marshal and fire departments throughout the state to replace current firefighting foams with safe, non-carcinogenic SoyFoam made from soybeans.
SoyFoam is non-toxic and is free of fluorine, a toxic chemical which can cause pulmonary edema, a potentially deadly condition known to cause liver and kidney damage. SoyFoam also does not contain PFAS substances, which are found in other current firefighting foams. PFAS substances are hazardous to humans and wildlife and have been linked to thousands of cancers every year.
In addition to being a safer product, SoyFoam has been found to be just as effective in fighting fires. Illinois is one of the nation’s leading producers of soybeans, so adoption of this product would be good for our firefighters, good for the environment, and good for Illinois farmers.
The resolution was adopted unanimously.