Exposure to PFAS has been linked to problems with the immune system, developmental issues in children and cancer — the leading cause of death among firefighters.

The state pilot program aims to better understand the connection between exposure to PFAS and cancer amongst Hoosier firefighters.

Right now, the federal government doesn't require products that contain PFAS to be labeled, and doesn't check companies' claims that products are PFAS-free. But states are rising to the challenge.

Indiana manufacturers pushed to change the state's definition of toxic PFAS to ensure they can continue using some of those chemicals. That effort failed at the Statehouse. But we'll likely see more legislation like this as manufacturers try to hold on to chemicals the federal government wants to limit.

A bill that would change the definition of toxic PFAS to exclude chemicals Indiana manufacturers want to continue using passed the House on Tuesday.

Indiana manufacturers want to continue to be able to use certain types of toxic PFAS. A state House bill, HB 1399, aims to change the definition of PFAS under Indiana law to exclude the specific chemicals they want to use.

State legislators passed two laws aimed at protecting firefighters from toxic PFAS this year, and the Indiana Chamber of Commerce wants to make sure the laws don't prevent Indiana manufacturers from using PFAS.

The human-made chemicals are found in all kinds of nonstick and stain-resistant products we use today.

As of late August, toxic PFAS has been found at levels above federal health guidelines in the treated drinking water at six more large utilities in Indiana. That includes utilities serving the cities of East Chicago, Madison and Ramsey as well as Lake, Jackson and Johnson counties.

So far, IDEM has found unhealthy levels of PFAS in 19 drinking water utilities . Some listeners who get their water from these utilities wanted to know how they can protect themselves and their families.