Local State Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) has passed legislation that urges the Illinois State Fire Marshal and local fire departments to replace traditional firefighting foams with a non-toxic alternative known as SoyFoam.
Swanson introduced the resolution to address health and environmental safety in firefighting.
The measure tasks the State Fire Marshal with helping departments safely dispose of legacy chemical foams while encouraging immediate investment in soybean-based alternatives.
Because Illinois is a leading soybean producer, during floor debate on the resolution, Swanson highlighted that switching to SoyFoam supports local family farmers by creating an entirely new market for their crops.
The resolution was officially adopted on Tuesday.