Cancer Presumption Bill to Lessen the Burden on Firefighters

Pennsylvania firefighters who are living with cancer caused by hazardous working conditions are one step closer to receiving workers' compensation to help with medical costs. The Cancer Presumption Bill, 25 years in the making, is now awaiting Governor Rendell's signature and will pass if he signs.

According to Tim McShea, Vice President of Firefighters' Local 22, there are about 200 active fire fighters in Philadelphia fighting some form of cancer. Firefighters save lives every day, and in so doing are exposed to chemicals and other dangerous carcinogens in burning buildings and homes. Many common household products become cancer-causing when burning. It has been difficult for firefighters living with cancer to prove that their illness was caused by working in these conditions. If the Cancer Presumption Bill passes, the burden on Philadelphia's courageous firefighters will be lessened.

McShea hopes that the Governor Rendell will do the right thing and pass this bill. "It would be one less hoop for the firefighters to jump through to take care of their families in times of great difficulty".

Watch this report from We Are Central PA here: http://wearecentralpa.com/libraries/nxd/media/?data=media_player&v=545726

For more information visit Fire Fighters' Local 22:
http://www.iaff22.org/index.cfm?section=1

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