ALBANY, N.Y. (WENY) – The state of New York plans to restrict the use of firefighting foam that has specific chemicals that have the potential to contaminate groundwater.

Governor Andrew Cuomo approved the bill last month. The foam can contain polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly known as PFAS. They are man made chemicals that research suggests can decrease female fertility, increase the risk of high blood pressure in pregnant women and lower birth weights.

The bill that was passed by lawmakers would also ban the use of foam with PFAS to fight fires from different kinds of liquids.