AFFF Lawsuit Update
Thousands of firefighters and military veterans have taken legal action for harm caused by firefighting foam. AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) contains chemicals called PFAS that have been linked to more than a dozen types of cancer and other health problems. As this litigation moves forward, LawFirm.com is providing AFFF lawsuit updates for those awaiting compensation and justice.
Why Take Legal Action?
By filing a lawsuit, you can pursue financial compensation and justice from those who caused you or a loved one harm.
Firefighter Foam Lawsuit Update
AFFF, a type of firefighting foam used to suppress fuel-based fires, has been the subject of many lawsuits due to its association with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known as “forever chemicals.”
Find out more about the latest firefighter foam lawsuit updates:
- Most firefighting foam lawsuits involve firefighters assigned to airports and U.S. military firefighters.
- Plaintiffs claim AFFF causes cancer and other health problems.
- Manufacturers like DuPont and 3M allegedly knew about the dangers but failed to warn the public.
- As of February 2025, 8,092 claims have been consolidated in a firefighting foam class action lawsuit or multidistrict litigation (MDL).
AFFF lawsuit updates can help those who have filed a claim or are considering taking legal action know what to expect as the litigation moves toward a potential settlement.
LawFirm.com works with AFFF lawyers who can stand up to powerful chemical companies on behalf of victims and fight for compensation on their behalf. Our legal partners have secured over $9.8 billion for those injured through no fault of their own.
Get a free case review now to see if they may be able to pursue justice for you, too.
AFFF Lawsuit Update 2024-2025
Thhere has been a great deal of activity in the AFFF litigation as more cases continue to be filed and both sides work toward a resolution.
Find out more about the latest AFFF lawsuit updates for 2025, so you have the legal information you need.
1. AFFF Class Action Sees a Surge in Claims
Firefighting Foam Class Action Update: February 7, 2025
Over 450 claims were added to the AFFF class action lawsuit or MDL in January 2025, bringing the total number of cases to 8,092.
This surge shows that firefighters are intent on making their voices heard and seeking justice for PFAS-related cancers.
Victims only have a limited amount of time to take legal action, so it’s important to reach out to an AFFF lawyer as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you may miss out on your chance for a firefighter foam lawsuit payout.
2. Ulcerative Colitis Cases Proceed
AFFF Lawsuit Update: January 2, 2025
Lawyers for both sides have requested a new case management order to set up a bellwether discovery pool for AFFF personal injury cases involving ulcerative colitis. These test cases will move forward toward an AFFF settlement or trial.
Several ulcerative colitis cases have already gone through an initial round of a fact-gathering process called discovery. The case management order calls for as many as 4 of these cases to go through more extensive evidence collection.
3. AFFF Bellwether Trials Set for 2025
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: December 2, 2024
Bellwether trials in the firefighting foam litigation have been scheduled for 2025. These test trials help both sides in a mass tort understand how the cases are likely to play out in court and evaluate a defendant’s potential liability.
There’s a possibility that a global AFFF settlement will be reached before these trials take place. If a case go to trial, a jury could order the defendants to pay punitive damages for their reckless behavior, which may pose a large financial risk to these companies.
4. Chemical Companies Seek Dismissal of PFAS Class Action
AFFF Lawsuit Update: October 25, 2024
Chemical manufacturing companies, including 3M and Chemours, have asked an Ohio federal judge to dismiss a class action lawsuit that seeks medical monitoring for PFAS chemicals in the blood of AFFF victims.
Medical monitoring is often requested in toxic exposure cases like those involving firefighter foam. The process involves regular monitoring of patients over time to detect changes in health that may require treatment.
Medical monitoring could lead to early diagnosis of cancers and other diseases related to AFFF, allowing firefighters to get timely medical care and improve their health outcomes.
5. $730 Million PFAS Settlement Announced
Latest AFFF Settlement Update: October 22, 2024
Carrier Global has agreed to pay $730 million to its fire protection unit Kidde-Fenwal and victims who have filed claims against the bankrupt subsidiary over toxic firefighting foam products.
Of the settlement funds, $540 million will go to the subsidiary and $190 million to plaintiffs who have filed firefighting foam claims.
Kidde-Fenwal said in a court filing that it planned to use the settlement money to pay local governments, companies, and individual victims harmed by its AFFF products.
6. MDL Grows by 320 Cases
AFFF Lawsuit Update: October 8, 2024
The AFFF class action MDL was busy in September 2024 as 320 new cases were added.
The case, In re Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation (MDL-2873), is pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Judge Richard A. Gergel is overseeing the litigation.
The mass tort is expected to grow as more victims are diagnosed with AFFF-related cancers and decide to take action against the companies responsible for their illnesses.
7. North Carolina Man Files AFFF Claim
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: September 18, 2024
A new claim in the MDL was filed by a North Carolina firefighter who alleges he developed kidney cancer due to AFFF exposure that occurred while he performed training exercises in Virginia.
He also claims that the water he drank in Virginia was contaminated with toxic chemicals from the defendants’ products.
PFAS are known to accumulate in the body, resulting in serious health issues over time.
8. Order Addresses Management of Witnesses
AFFF Foam Lawsuit Update: September 11, 2024
Judge Gergel issued a new case management order in the AFFF MDL to streamline the management of witness and expert testimony in the case. This order details the procedures for handling witness depositions and sets deadlines to keep the process moving efficiently.
This decision keeps key testimonies, including those from toxicology experts and environmental scientists, properly organized and presented, potentially speeding up the resolution of the case.
9. Over 500 Claims Added to AFFF MDL
AFFF Lawsuit Update: August 31, 2024
Over 500 new claims were added to the AFFF mass tort in August 2024, increasing the total number of claims to nearly 6,000.
The growing case number reflects a rising public awareness of PFAS contamination and the health risks associated with firefighting foam. Those exposed to high concentrations of the toxic chemicals face an increased risk of cancer and other health problems.
It’s not too late to join the thousands of other victims seeking compensation and justice for harm caused by firefighting foam.
Call (888) 726-9160 right now or chat with a case manager to see if a top AFFF lawyer may be able to fight hard for everything you deserve.
10. Study Shows AFFF Water Contamination Near Military Base
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: August 21, 2024
Researchers from the University of Arizona detected widespread PFAS contamination in water supplies near Fairchild Air Force Base in Airway Height, Washington. Military firefighters used AFFF to extinguish highly flammable fuel fires, resulting in high levels of PFAS chemicals in the water supply.
The study found that individuals who lived near the base had high levels of PFAS in their blood. PFAS have been linked to serious health conditions like liver cancer, prostate cancer, leukemia, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Plaintiffs may be able to use this research to strengthen their case against firefighting foam manufacturers and maximize AFFF settlement values.
11. Massachusetts Set to Ban PFAS in Firefighter Gear
AFFF Lawsuit Update: August 13, 2024
Massachusetts lawmakers have proposed a bill that would phase out the use of PFAS chemicals in firefighting gear and equipment by 2027. Manufacturers will also be required to clearly label gear that contains PFAS.
If passed, this law would protect firefighters and set a precedent for other states to follow. It would push manufacturers to develop PFAS-free alternatives for firefighting gear and foam, potentially leading to regulatory changes across the country.
12. AFFF Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: August 6, 2024
A woman has filed a wrongful death lawsuit after her husband, a firefighter and hazardous materials technician for Union County, New Jersey, died from kidney cancer at age 35.
The product liability lawsuit alleges that the victim used AFFF in both training and emergency situations, unaware of the risks associated with PFAS.
More than two dozen defendants were named, including Chemguard Inc., Chemours Company FC, Kidde PLC, and 3M Company. The plaintiff claims the defendants designed, manufactured, and distributed PFAS-containing AFFF without providing adequate warnings or instructions for safe use.
13. Tyco Fire Products Insurance Settlement
AFFF Lawsuit Update: August 1, 2024
Tyco Fire Products and its insurers, including AIG, have been involved in a legal dispute over whether the insurance companies would cover Tyco’s liabilities related to PFAS contamination caused by their firefighting foam products.
The group has reached a preliminary settlement agreement. Once finalized, Tyco will drop its claims against AIG “with prejudice,” preventing Tyco from bringing the same claims against AIG in the future.
This agreement helps Tyco secure the financial backing needed to meet its obligations in a $750 million settlement over drinking water systems impacted by PFAS contamination.
For victims of PFAS contamination, this settlement is good news because it improves Tyco’s financial position and makes it more likely that the company can contribute to a future settlement for AFFF firefighting foam claims.
Get a free case review now to see if a top firefighting foam lawyer may be able to fight for a settlement on your behalf.
14. Cases Selected for Bellwether Trials
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: July 22, 2024
Judge Gergel selected 9 cases for the first bellwether trials in the AFFF class action lawsuit or multidistrict litigation. Bellwether trials are test trials that help both sides assess how future cases could play out.
These first cases will involve Pennsylvania residents with kidney or testicular cancer and Colorado residents with thyroid cancer or ulcerative colitis.
All eyes will be on these bellwethers as they will likely guide settlement negotiations and influence case values for the firefighting foam litigation. LawFirm.com will report on the results of these cases in a future AFFF foam lawsuit update.
15. Legal Strategy Proposed to Streamline Litigation
AFFF Lawsuit Update: July 17, 2024
Plaintiffs’ lawyers in the AFFF mass tort proposed a trial strategy aimed at grouping specific PFAS-related health conditions from certain locations together to streamline the litigation and speed up the legal process.
The proposal suggests selecting kidney and testicular cancer cases from Pennsylvania and thyroid disease and ulcerative colitis cases from Colorado. These types of cases were likely chosen because there is strong evidence linking these health conditions to PFAS exposure.
The strategy is designed to reduce the burden on the court system and both parties. Limiting the focus to certain types of cases means there will be fewer depositions (testimonies from witnesses), expert reports, and required evidence.
16. Navy Firefighter Files AFFF Lawsuit
AFFF Lawsuit Update: July 11, 2024
A Georgia man diagnosed with kidney cancer after serving as a firefighter in the U.S. Navy at Memphis Naval Station in Memphis, Tennessee, has filed an AFFF lawsuit.
The plaintiff alleges that he regularly used toxic firefighter foam and wore firefighting gear made with PFAS-containing materials, and this exposure caused his illness.
17. Air Force Switches to Safer Foam Products
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: July 9, 2024
The U.S. Air Force is taking steps to stop using AFFF, which contains harmful PFAS chemicals, by replacing it with a new, environmentally friendly firefighting foam called fluorine-free formulation (F3).
The Department of Defense has allocated $8.55 million to buy over 270,000 gallons of the fluorine-free formulation. This investment shows the military’s commitment to improving safety and reducing environmental impacts associated with exposure to traditional military firefighting foams.
The transition to F3 began at overseas military installations and has now expanded to U.S. bases. This indicates a systematic approach to phasing out AFFF and implementing safer alternatives.
18. Study Shows How PFAS Cause Bodily Injury
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: July 27, 2024
A study that looked at how different PFAS compounds are absorbed when applied to human skin may have implications for lawsuits involving AFFF firefighting foam.
Although certain PFAS were not absorbed directly into the skin, a significant amount of these chemicals was found to remain within the skin tissue. This means that while they might not enter the bloodstream immediately, these chemicals can still be released into the body over time and cause serious health issues.
The study confirms that dermal (skin) exposure to PFAS can contribute to the overall amount of PFAS in the body. This is particularly relevant for firefighters who have been exposed to PFAS-containing foams, as it establishes a scientifically backed pathway through which they may have been harmed.
Call (888) 726-9160 right now to find out if you may be eligible for compensation from an AFFF lawsuit.
19. Firefighter With Leukemia Files AFFF Claim
AFFF Lawsuit Update: June 23, 2024
An Alabama firefighter filed an AFFF claim after being diagnosed with leukemia. The lawsuit claims the carcinogens in the fire suppression foam he was exposed to directly led to his cancer.
The case is one of thousands that have been consolidated in the AFFF multidistrict litigation in a federal court in South Carolina.
20. Case Management Order Deadline Arrives
AFFF Lawsuit Update: May 6, 2024
Judge Gergel has set a deadline for AFFF lawyers to submit proposals for a case management order, which will outline the schedule for future trials and evidence collection related to Tier 2 bellwether cases.
A case management order sets specific timelines for different phases of the litigation, like gathering evidence, filing motions, and trial dates. It also outlines the procedures that the parties must follow, including how to handle discovery disputes, conduct depositions, and submit evidence.
21. Joint Motion Seeks to Identify AFFF Diseases
AFFF Lawsuit Update: April 4, 2024
There continues to be debate about which health conditions should be included in the AFFF MDL as the scientific understanding of PFAS-related diseases continues to evolve.
A joint motion has been filed to streamline the management of personal injury cases not covered under a previous case management order.
The motion calls for a “science day” where experts will present evidence about disease associations without lawyers present. The discussion will aid in the selection of identified diseases for bellwether cases.
22. Firefighter’s Bladder Cancer Claim Added to MDL
Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Update: February 26, 2024
A Nevada firefighter’s bladder cancer case was added to the AFFF MDL. The claim alleges that AFFF exposure from 1992 to 1997 caused him to develop this rare cancer.
The case highlights the potential risk of long-term occupational exposure to PFAS.
If you or a loved one are a firefighter, were exposed to this foam, and later developed cancer, you may qualify for compensation from a firefighter foam lawsuit. Get started with a free case review.
AFFF Litigation Update Timeline
AFFF litigation against firefighting foam manufacturers started to gain momentum in 2017. Find out how AFFF lawsuit news has unfolded below:
- October 2017: The first AFFF cases are filed in federal court against major manufacturers, including 3M and DuPont, after studies linked PFAS in firefighting foam to cancer and other serious health conditions.
- December 2018: Due to the large number of AFFF lawsuits, the claims are consolidated into a type of class action lawsuit called multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the District of South Carolina under Judge Richard M. Gergel.
- March 2020: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues new guidelines that lowered acceptable levels of PFAS in drinking water. This put pressure on AFFF manufacturers and encouraged more municipalities to file lawsuits to address the costs of cleaning up contaminated groundwater.
- June 2021: Several manufacturers, including Corteva and DuPont, reach their first significant AFFF lawsuit settlements with public water systems. The settlements, totaling over $600 million, are meant to cover the costs of remediating PFAS contamination in public water systems.
- November 2022: The first bellwether or test trial in the AFFF water contamination MDL is set for June 2023 with the City of Stuart, Florida as the plaintiff. This case focuses on PFAS contamination in the city’s water supply, and the outcome is expected to shape future AFFF lawsuit settlements.
- July 2023: Tyco Fire Products and Chemguard agree to pay $750 million to settle contamination lawsuits filed by municipalities over AFFF contamination in public water systems.
- April 2024: Lawyers for both sides file a joint motion requesting more time to gather expert testimony and prepare for personal injury lawsuits related to firefighting foam exposure. The motion highlights the complexity of establishing the link between PFAS contamination and cancer.
- July 2024: Judge Gergel selects nine firefighter bellwether cases focusing on kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis. These trials could set the stage for AFFF lawsuit settlements in the coming months.
- August 2024: In response to growing concerns over PFAS, the U.S. Air Force announces that it will replace AFFF with fluorine-free formulations (F3), which don’t contain PFAS. This marks a major shift in military policy and an effort to safeguard military personnel.
- September 2024: AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits continue to be filed as firefighters receive cancer diagnoses tied to different types of PFAS. Manufacturers of AFFF face mounting litigation costs and growing public scrutiny.
- October 2024: The AFFF MDL nears 10,000 claims as those affected seek compensation and justice for AFFF cancers.
- December 2024: The number of cases in the MDL drops to 7,370 as thousands of water contamination claims were settled and dismissed from the mass tort.
- January 2025: As 2024 comes to a close, over 260 firefighter claims are added to the MDL. The official case count stands at 7,633 claims.
- February 2025: Both sides have until February 14, 2025, to exchange information about the expert witnesses they plan to use.
As the AFFF litigation proceeds through the legal system, victims move closer to securing compensation and holding negligent manufacturers accountable. Stay tuned to LawFirm.com for more AFFF lawsuit updates and news.
Get Help From an AFFF Lawyer
LawFirm.com has partnered with AFFF lawyers who are at the forefront of this area of litigation. They’re closely monitoring the latest AFFF lawsuit updates and are ready to help victims in all 50 states.
The AFFF attorneys in our network can take on powerful chemical companies and even the playing field for hardworking firefighters and military personnel who’ve been harmed by toxic AFFF.
There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to work with these lawyers, so there’s no financial risk to take legal action.
Together, our legal partners have secured over $9.8 billion for victims of injustice across the country.
Call (888) 726-9160 right now or get a free case review to see if we can connect you with a top AFFF lawyer who can fight for you.
AFFF Lawsuit Updates FAQs
How much is the AFFF lawsuit going to payout?
AFFF lawsuit settlements could reach $500,000 or more in some cases, according to legal experts.
Firefighter foam case values will vary depending on the health condition involved, the amount of exposure, and other factors. Test trials called bellwethers may shed some light on how much money victims may be able to expect.
LawFirm.com will be providing the latest firefighter foam lawsuit update for victims who have filed a claim or those who may be considering taking legal action.
Get a free case review now to see if you may qualify for an AFFF settlement.
How long does it take to settle an AFFF lawsuit?
A global settlement in the AFFF mass tort litigation is expected by early 2025, according to those familiar with the case.
The companies being sued settled similar water contamination claims involving AFFF for billions of dollars instead of taking their chances in court. Legal experts predict that the defendants will do the same with AFFF personal injury claims.
However, each case is unique, and the payout timeline may vary. A personal injury lawyer can tell you what you may be able to expect and work to secure compensation on your behalf as quickly as possible.
What is the status of the AFFF lawsuit?
As of February 2025, over 8,000 claims have been consolidated in a class action multi-district litigation involving the harmful effects of PFAS in firefighting foams.
Some settlements, like those involving contaminated water, have been reached, but individual personal injury claims for firefighting foam cancers and other diseases are still pending.
Our team is committed to providing the latest AFFF lawsuit news, so our readers know what to expect as the litigation moves forward toward a resolution.
Is an AFFF lawsuit legitimate?
Yes, the AFFF litigation is legitimate. Thousands of victims have already taken legal action to make their voices heard and hold negligent AFFF product manufacturers accountable.
It’s not too late to join the AFFF cancer lawsuit and pursue justice.
Call (888) 726-9160 now to see if you may be eligible for compensation.

Fact-Checked and Legally Reviewed by: Rae Theodore
Rae Theodore is a writer and editor with more than 30 years of experience in legal publishing. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Pennsylvania State University.
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. (2024, January 18). “Preventing PFAS Exposure.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/prevent-exposure/your-body.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/PFAS-exposure-and-your-body.html
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. (2024, January 18). “How PFAS Impacts Your Health.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/about/health-effects.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, November 9). “Extinguishing the Risk of Forever Chemicals: State of the science to protect first responders.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2021/11/09/pfas/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). “PFAS and Worker Health.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pfas/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/pfas/default.html
- National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2022). Guidance on PFAS Exposure, Testing, and Clinical Follow-Up.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://doi.org/10.17226/26156.
- Reuters. (2024, October 21). “Carrier reaches $730 mln settlement over fire protection unit PFAS claims.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/carrier-reaches-730-mln-settlement-over-fire-protection-unit-pfas-claims-2024-10-21/Reuters
- Sokolove Law. (2024, October 17). “Firefighting Foam or AFFF Lawsuit.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.sokolovelaw.com/personal-injury/workplace/chemical-exposure/firefighting-foam/
- U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. (n.d.). “Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF) Products Liability Litigation, MDL No. 2873.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.scd.uscourts.gov/mdl-2873/index.asp
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, July 12). “Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
- U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. (2025, February 3). “MDL Statistics Report – Distribution of Pending MDL Dockets by District.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://www.jpml.uscourts.gov/sites/jpml/files/Pending_MDL_Dockets_By_District-February-3-2025.pdf
- Westlaw Today. (2024, October 22). “3M, Chemours seek dismissal of Ohio firefighter’s PFAS class action.” Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://today.westlaw.com/Document/Iad2c732f909611efb5eab7c3554138a0/View/FullText.html?