Firefighters across the United States have been exposed for decades to dangerous PFAS chemicals (“forever chemicals”) found in firefighting foam and protective gear. These toxic substances are now linked to a range of serious cancers and illnesses.
At Fob James Law Firm, we represent firefighters who have suffered PFAS-related health conditions. Even though the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act of 2024 has not yet passed, we are preparing to help eligible firefighters and their families file claims for compensation as soon as the law takes effect.
Our biggest concern is making sure you get the justice and the compensation that you deserve. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us 24/7 at 866-837-1010.
What Is the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Program?
If enacted, the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Program would establish a federal fund to compensate firefighters diagnosed with PFAS-related diseases caused by occupational exposure.
Under the proposed law (S.4013), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services would oversee a no-fault claims process—meaning firefighters wouldn’t need to prove negligence to qualify for benefits.
Who Would Be Eligible for Compensation?
Firefighters could qualify if they:
- Served at least two years as a career, volunteer, or military firefighter
- Were diagnosed with a qualifying PFAS-related illness during or after their service
- Or are the estate administrator or family member (spouse, child, parent, or sibling) of a deceased firefighter who qualifies
PFAS-Related Health Conditions
According to the proposed legislation, eligible conditions include the following.
- Cancers: Kidney, testicular, liver, prostate, bladder, pancreatic, breast, colon, and ovarian
- Thyroid disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Other illnesses the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines are PFAS-related
Proposed Compensation Amounts
If approved, the bill provides the following base awards (subject to inflation):
- $250,000 for a PFAS-related cancer
- $50,000 for a non-cancer PFAS-related illness
Awards would be multiplied based on years of service:
| Years of Service | Multiplier |
|---|---|
| 2 – 5 years | 1× |
| 5 – 7 years | 2× |
| 7 – 10 years | 3× |
| 10 + years | 4× |
For example, if you served 6 years as a firefighter and were diagnosed kidney cancer, you would be entitled to $500,000 (2 X $250,000).
Firefighters with special circumstances could potentially receive additional compensation as determined by the Secretary.
How the Compensation Fund Would Work
The bill would establish a PFAS Trust Fund, financed through excise taxes on PFAS manufacturers and PFAS-related litigation settlements. Payments would be distributed directly to eligible firefighters or their families.
Claims would be processed within 120 days, and any delays due to lack of funding would include interest on unpaid amounts once funds become available.
What Are the Attorney’s Fees for a Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Program Claim?
Fob James Law Firm operates on the contingency-fee-basis. This means we are paid a percentage of the recovery.
Our fees come out of a favorable settlement or award, not out of your pocket. Importantly, if we do not obtain a recovery then you owe us nothing.
Fob James Law Firm charges every Firefighter PFAS injury client a 20% or 25% contingency fee.
Specifically, if your claim is resolved administratively, the attorney’s fee is 20% of the settlement.
If your claim is resolved after appealing an administrative denial, the attorney’s fee is 25% of the total recovery.
Why File a Firefighter PFAS Injury Claim Early
Although the Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Act is still pending, early legal preparation ensures your claim is ready to file the moment the program becomes law.
Our firm is already helping firefighters across the country gather records, medical documentation, and service histories to preserve their right to compensation.
Will I Qualify for Compensation If I Filed A PFAS/AFFF Lawsuit?
Yes, as the bill is currently drafted, you will qualify for compensation under the program even if you filed a separate PFAS/AFFF lawsuit in state or federal MDL court.
Under the current draft of the bill, you can “double dip”. This means you would be able to recover compensation through a civil claim against a chemical/equipment manufactuer (e.g. the AFFF MDL) and the compensation program.
Why Choose Fob James Law Firm
- National Representation: We represent clients in all 50 states.
- Experience in PFAS and Firefighter Litigation: Our attorneys are actively involved in the AFFF firefighting foam MDL and have extensive experience handling toxic exposure claims, inlcuding Camp Lejeune.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Contact Us for a Free Firefighter PFAS Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or another PFAS-related illness after years of firefighting service, contact Fob James Law Firm today.
Our Firefighter PFAS Injury attorneys in Birmingham, AL and Atlanta, GA are ready to help you.
📞 Call: (866) 837-1010
💬 Free Consultation: Request a Case Review
📍 Nationwide Representation | Based in Birmingham, Alabama and Atlanta, Georgia