State Rep. Dave Rutigliano Backs Expansion of Firefighters Cancer Relief Program

HARTFORD — State Representative Dave Rutigliano voted Wednesday in strong support of legislation to expand the Firefighters Cancer Relief Program, reinforcing his commitment to Connecticut’s first responders.

The measure, Senate Bill 1426, adds skin cancer to the list of covered illnesses and empowers workers’ compensation administrative law judges to review appeals of denied benefit claims—strengthening access to relief for those affected.

“Connecticut’s firefighters risk their lives every day — but their battle doesn’t end when the fire is out. Cancer is now the leading cause of firefighter deaths,” said Rep. Rutigliano. “Expanding this program is not just good policy — it’s a moral obligation.”

Under the existing law, which Rep Rutigliano was instrumental in getting passed, the program  covers cancers that may have been caused as a result of a firefighter’s duties and exposure to dangerous toxins in the line of work.  The Legislation is intended to help with wage replacement for career and volunteer firefighters as they recover and get treatment.

Rep. Rutigliano, who helped negotiate and craft the creation of the Firefighters Cancer Relief Program in 2016, also backed this year’s expansion.

The legislation has earned strong backing from both the Connecticut State Firefighters Association and the Uniformed Professional Fire Figters Association of Connecticut (UPFFA of CT). According to the UPFFA, cancer is now responsible for nearly 75% of firefighter deaths annually.

The bill now heads to Governor Ned Lamont for final approval.