Piscopo Supports ‘Cancer Benefit’ for Firefighters

HARTFORD –State Representative John Piscopo (R-76) voted in support of a bill that will expand aid for firefighters who suffer from cancer caused directly by their job.

Under the legislation, HB 5262, a new “Firefighters Cancer Relief Account” will be created and run by the Connecticut State Firefighters Association which will be used to provide wage replacement benefits for eligible firefighter cancer victims and to pay associated administrative costs. “Our brave firefighters willingly and selflessly answer the call to serve our communities. They face challenging and dangerous situations every time they respond to help, which includes exposure to harmful toxins from burning fires. I’m glad that this bill will offer a safety net for these brave men and women if they should ever need our help in return,” said Rep. Piscopo.

In previous years, similar proposals failed to pass through the General Assembly because funds would be absorbed from municipalities. This year, lawmakers were able to create a plan which eliminated the creation of another municipal mandate.

The account will be funded by diverting $.01 from the current e911 fee on phone bills into the fund. Beginning July 1, 2019, firefighters who have been working for at least five years and can show through medical screenings that they have contracted cancer through their professional environment will be eligible for up to two years of benefits.

The measure was passed out of the House of Representatives after years of collaborative work on the concept by firefighters, legislators, and municipalities.

The bill is now being sent to the Senate, where it will await further action. The 2016 legislative session adjourns at midnight on May 4th.

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