Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) announced that legislation he co-sponsored to provide volunteer firefighters with enhanced disability benefits has been signed into law (Ch. 334 of 2017).
“Whether responding to a fire or assisting residents during an emergency, volunteer firefighters go above and beyond to protect our community,” said Stirpe. “By ensuring that these heroes receive the health benefits they need and deserve, we’re helping give their families greater peace of mind.”
Volunteer firefighters frequently are exposed to hazardous carcinogens and dangerous smoke. Because of this, they may face long-term health issues and are at a heightened risk of cancer.[1]
Beginning in January 2019, the new law expands disability benefits to cover cancers that affect the digestive, hematological, lymphatic, urinary, prostate, neurological, breast and reproductive systems and are a result of the volunteer firefighter’s duties. Prior to this law’s passage, the maximum disability was limited to $600 per month, leaving them burdened with costly out-of-pocket expenses. By increasing disability benefits, volunteer firefighters and their families will be better protected, noted Stirpe.
[1] cdc.gov/niosh/pgms/worknotify/