04/30/2026
LRFD LAWSUIT: Little Rock has joined a lawsuit that began in Montana over firefighter gear.
The lawsuit centers on “turnout gear” that firefighters wear. It alleges that for decades, manufacturers of this gear were aware it contained PFAS chemicals that have been linked to cancer, but did not inform cities or fire departments.
The Little Rock City Board voted unanimously to join cities like St. Louis and Baltimore in suing these manufacturers Tuesday night. The local firefighters’ union tells me they’re happy, as cancer is a real danger for firefighters and they’re for anything that helps fight that.
New plaintiffs can join the suit through May 5th- after that, it will proceed through federal court.