Preventing Mass Casualties from Release of Hydrofluoric Acid at Refineries Act of 2026

# Preventing Mass Casualties from Release of Hydrofluoric Acid at Refineries Act of 2026 **What the bill would do:** This bill aims to enhance safety measures at oil refineries that use hydrofluoric acid (HF), a highly toxic chemical used in fuel production. If passed, it would establish stricter regulations and requirements to prevent accidental releases of this dangerous substance, which could cause severe harm or death to workers and nearby communities. The bill likely includes provisions for improved safety standards, emergency response protocols, and monitoring systems at refineries handling this chemical. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects oil refineries and their operators, particularly those using hydrofluoric acid in their production processes. It would also impact workers at these facilities and residents living near refineries, as they would benefit from enhanced safety protections.

Regulatory agencies responsible for industrial safety would need to enforce any new requirements. **Current status:** As of now, the bill (HR 7384) is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. No amendments or major actions have been taken on it yet. The bill was sponsored by Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA).