TRENTON, NJ — Senators George Helmy (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced legislation on Thursday aimed at providing critical healthcare to America’s firefighters. The Firefighter Investments to Recognize Exposure to Cancer Act (FIRE Cancer Act) would fund free multi-cancer early detection and preventative tests for firefighters, both professional and volunteer, across the country.
The bill seeks to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for these screenings, which are designed to detect cancer early and improve treatment outcomes. “The FIRE Cancer Act is about more than healthcare—it’s about honoring the sacrifice of firefighters who risk their lives for us every day,” Senator Helmy said in a statement.
Senator Booker emphasized the health risks that firefighters face due to exposure to carcinogens on the job. “Every day, our firefighters risk their lives to protect our communities, often at the expense of their own health,” Booker said. “Cancer can be prevented and combated with early detection and intervention, and this legislation is a critical step in ensuring that firefighters have access to life-saving medical care.”
Cancer has become the leading cause of death among firefighters, with 66% of those who died in the line of duty between 2002 and 2019 succumbing to the disease. Studies show that firefighters are 9% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 14% more likely to die from it compared to the general population.
The bill, first introduced in the House by Representatives Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) and Anthony D’Esposito (NY-4), has garnered support from several firefighter advocacy groups, including the International Association of Fire Fighters and the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association. Gottheimer praised the legislation, stating, “Early cancer detection saves lives, and the firefighters who always answer the call need resources to access cancer testing.”
The bipartisan FIRE Cancer Act is part of ongoing efforts to address the long-term health risks faced by firefighters across the nation.
