Wisconsin Law Helps Fire Departments Adopt Soy-Based, PFAS-Free Foam

New legislation expands grant funding to cover up to 50% of the cost for soybean-derived fire suppressants, supporting safer operations and Wisconsin agriculture.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:07am

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A new Wisconsin law allows fire departments to use state grant funding to purchase soybean-based fire suppression products that are free of harmful PFAS 'forever chemicals'. The legislation gives departments more flexibility to adopt newer, safer technologies as they update equipment and respond to evolving safety standards. The law also supports Wisconsin's agricultural economy by creating a new market for the state's soybean farmers.

Why it matters

Traditional firefighting foams have often relied on PFAS chemicals that persist in the environment and have been linked to increased cancer risks for firefighters. Soybean-based alternatives offer a biodegradable, non-toxic option that can reduce long-term impacts while still meeting performance needs in fire suppression. This law helps fire departments access these safer products while also supporting Wisconsin's soybean farmers who have struggled to sell their crops to foreign markets.

The details

The new law, signed by Governor Tony Evers, expands eligibility within the Department of Natural Resources' fire suppression grant program to allow fire departments to use funds to cover up to 50% of the cost of soybean-derived fire suppressants, in addition to fire-resistant clothing and equipment. This gives departments more flexibility to adopt newer, safer technologies as they update equipment and respond to evolving safety standards. Ten fire departments in Wisconsin currently use soy foam, which is an effective Class A wetting agent, fire retardant, and Class B firefighting foam for fuel fires and vapor suppression.

  • The law was signed by Governor Tony Evers on April 6, 2026.
  • The DNR banned the use of PFAS-based firefighting foams in 2020.

The players

Tony Evers

The Governor of Wisconsin who signed the law allowing fire departments to use state grant funding for soybean-based fire suppression products.

Clint Moses

A Republican state representative from Menomonie, Wisconsin who introduced the bill after reading about the benefits of soybean-based fire suppressants.

Chippewa Valley Technical College

A college in Wisconsin that is studying soybean-based fire suppressants and alternatives to PFAS-based firefighting foams.

Cross Plains Solutions

A company that has developed a fire suppressant made primarily from soybean flour that is PFAS-free and environmentally friendly.

Wisconsin Soybean Association

An organization that supports the new law, which creates a new market for Wisconsin soybean farmers.

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What they’re saying

“It's proven to be quite effective, even in cold temperatures. It frees up local fire departments to (purchase) it. It's also good for the farmers, because it's another market for selling their soybeans.”

— Clint Moses, State Representative

“It's a straightforward idea with real benefits, and I'm proud to see it signed into law.”

— Clint Moses, State Representative

What’s next

The new law will take effect immediately, allowing fire departments across Wisconsin to begin accessing state grant funding to purchase soy-based, PFAS-free fire suppression products.

The takeaway

This legislation represents an innovative solution that improves public safety, supports Wisconsin's agricultural economy, and reduces the environmental impact of firefighting operations by transitioning away from harmful PFAS chemicals. It serves as a model for other states looking to adopt safer, more sustainable fire suppression technologies.