WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have re-introduced the bipartisan Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act, legislation that would provide no-cost cancer screenings to federal firefighters employed by the Department of Defense. Firefighters face unique risks on the job, including frequent exposure to toxic substances like PFAS chemicals used in firefighting foam and turnout gear. These exposures put them at higher risk for developing cancer.
“Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect others, and in doing so they are unfortunately exposed to dangerous chemicals that increase their risk of cancer,” said Senator Slotkin. “Ensuring that these hardworking men and women have access to regular, free cancer screenings is the least we can do. This bill is simple. It’s about prevention, early detection, and giving firefighters every possible chance to return home safe to their families.”
“Cancer remains the leading cause of death among firefighters, who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Senator Collins. “When these brave men and women respond to fires and emergencies, they are often exposed to toxic chemicals that increase their risk of cancer and other serious health conditions. This bipartisan bill would improve data collection on these risks so that we can better equip our nation’s firefighters with the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe.”
“Regular cancer screenings are one of the most critical components for protecting fire fighters’ health,” said IAFF General President Edward A. Kelly. “Early cancer detection gives our members the best treatment options, increasing their odds for a healthy return to their families and jobs. Given our increased risk of cancer, DOD’s failure to provide early cancer screenings to fire fighters is appalling. The IAFF applauds Senators Slotkin and Collins for introducing this common-sense, life saving legislation. We call on Congress to swiftly pass this legislation to ensure federal fire fighters have every opportunity to stay healthy.” The bill would require the Department of Defense to provide their firefighters with free, routine screenings for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, as well as any other cancer that firefighters are at heightened risk of developing.
The bill would require the Department of Defense to provide their firefighters with free, routine screenings for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, as well as any other cancer that firefighters are at heightened risk of developing.
Read the full text of the bill here.
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