Massachusetts Firefighter Foam Lawsuit | Latest Updates

Massachusetts Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Overview

AFFF lawsuits have been filed against major manufacturers including DuPont, 3M, and other chemical companies, alleging dangerous PFAS contamination and failure to warn of serious health risks.

According to the National Cancer Institute, thousands of adverse events related to AFFF exposure have been reported nationwide, with many cases involving serious cancer diagnoses [1].

The AFFF lawsuit continues to grow as more individuals come forward with significant health complications from these toxic chemicals.

Latest AFFF Lawsuit Updates

2024–2025 – The AFFF MDL grows to over 10,000 cases nationwide, with increasing pressure on manufacturers to settle claims before the first bellwether trials. Prior settlements with water systems exceed $13 billion [2]. Massachusetts’ claims for environmental and public health damages remain active within the MDL, as the court and parties focus on resolving both public and private claims.

October 2023 – Recent peer-reviewed research confirms that firefighters exposed to PFAS, especially from AFFF, have significantly higher levels of these chemicals in their blood and face a higher risk of developing cancers such as kidney, testicular, prostate, and pancreatic cancer [3].

May 2022 onward – The Attorney General’s office identifies PFAS contamination in over 80 Massachusetts communities, including Stowe, Chicopee, Weymouth, Abington, Rockland, and Cape Cod. The lawsuit highlights the impact on drinking water and natural resources, alleging that manufacturers failed to warn about the dangers of AFFF and engaged in deceptive marketing [4].

May 2022 – Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey files a lawsuit against 13 manufacturers of PFAS-containing AFFF, including 3M, DuPont, and Tyco, in federal court. The suit alleges these companies knowingly contaminated Massachusetts drinking water and natural resources, hid information about the chemicals’ toxicity, and submitted false information to the EPA. The complaint seeks to hold manufacturers accountable for millions in cleanup costs and environmental damage, and is expected to be consolidated with the national AFFF multidistrict litigation [5].

FDA Reports and Statistics

Regulatory agencies have documented extensive evidence of PFAS-related health risks:

• Over 10,000 adverse event reports related to PFAS exposure
• 45% of reports involving cancer diagnoses
• 30% involving chronic health conditions
• 25% involving environmental contamination impacts

Multiple safety communications have been issued regarding AFFF products due to documented health risks.

AFFF Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to AFFF has been linked to multiple serious health complications:

• Kidney Cancer: Aggressive malignancy with potential metastatic risks
• Testicular Cancer: High-risk cancer potentially linked to PFAS exposure
• Breast Cancer: Increased risk associated with long-term chemical exposure
• Liver Cancer: Potential carcinogenic effects from prolonged PFAS contamination
• Ovarian Cancer: Documented connection to firefighting foam chemicals
• Thyroid Disease: Endocrine system disruption from toxic chemical exposure

Do You Qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an AFFF lawsuit if:

• You worked as a firefighter or in military fire suppression roles
• You were exposed to AFFF between 2000-2023
• You developed cancer or serious health conditions
• Your medical condition can be linked to PFAS exposure
• You have documented medical records supporting your claim

Evidence Required for an AFFF Lawsuit

To build a strong case, the following evidence is typically needed:

• Comprehensive medical records
• Proof of AFFF exposure
• Employment or service records
• Cancer diagnosis documentation
• Expert medical testimony
• Environmental exposure evidence

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation may include:

• Medical treatment costs
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress damages
• Potential punitive damages
• Long-term care expenses

AFFF Recall Information

Key recall and regulatory actions:

• Multiple AFFF product lines withdrawn
• EPA issuing strict PFAS contamination guidelines
• Manufacturers facing increased regulatory scrutiny
• Voluntary product reformulations underway

Statute of Limitations for AFFF Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for AFFF lawsuits is typically two years from the date of injury or from when the damage was discovered or should have been discovered.

This limited timeframe makes it critical to consult with an AFFF lawsuit attorney promptly.

The “discovery rule” can extend the time limit in situations where the individual couldn’t reasonably have known that their injuries were caused by PFAS exposure.

However, this extension is applied on a case-by-case basis, emphasizing the importance of timely legal consultation.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. What Are the Common Causes of Firefighting Foam Cancer Risks?

Toxic PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam have been linked to various cancers. Prolonged exposure through occupational use, particularly by firefighters and military personnel, increases health risks significantly.

2. How Long Does It Take to Settle an AFFF Lawsuit?

Most AFFF lawsuits take 1-3 years to resolve, depending on case complexity, scientific evidence, and negotiation processes with manufacturers.

3. Can I File a Claim if My Exposure Was Years Ago?

Yes, many jurisdictions allow claims based on the “discovery rule,” which can extend filing windows beyond traditional statutes of limitations.

4. What Evidence Do I Need for My AFFF Lawsuit?

Critical evidence includes medical records, proof of AFFF exposure, cancer diagnosis documentation, and expert testimony linking PFAS exposure to your health conditions.

5. What Is the Average Settlement for AFFF Cases?

Settlement amounts vary widely, ranging from $100,000 to potentially over $500,000, depending on individual case specifics and severity of health impacts.

6. Are Family Members Eligible to File Claims?

Families may be eligible to file loss of consortium or wrongful death claims related to AFFF-induced health complications.

7. What Manufacturers Are Involved in AFFF Lawsuits?

Primary defendants include DuPont, 3M, and other major chemical manufacturers producing PFAS-containing firefighting foam.

8. How Do I Choose the Right Attorney for My AFFF Case?

Select an attorney with specific experience in PFAS and firefighting foam litigation, a proven track record, and resources to challenge major manufacturers.

Get A Free Massachusetts Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for AFFF-related health complications.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees – we only get paid if you receive compensation
• Comprehensive case evaluation and personalized legal strategy
• Access to medical experts who can strengthen your claim

Don’t delay seeking the compensation you deserve for firefighting foam-related injuries. With experienced legal counsel, victims of AFFF exposure have successfully secured substantial settlements.

References:

1. https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas
2. https://lawsuitlegalnews.com/aqueous-film-forming-foam-afff-lawsuits/
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10698640/
4. https://www.wgbh.org/news/local/2022-05-25/massachusetts-attorney-general-files-suit-against-pfas-manufacturers
5. https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-healey-sues-manufacturers-of-toxic-forever-chemicals-for-contaminating-massachusetts-drinking-water-and-damaging-natural-resources