FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 11, 2024
CONTACT:
Joshua_Natoli@helmy.senate.gov
FIRE Cancer Act Provides Firefighters Life-Saving Early Detection and Preventative Tests Free-of-Cost
WASHINGTON, DC – Senator George Helmy (D-NJ) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today introduced a bill aimed at protecting America’s first responders. The Firefighter Investments to Recognize Exposure to Cancer Act (FIRE Cancer Act) directs federal funding toward providing firefighters—both professional and volunteer—with free multi-cancer early detection and preventative tests. By eliminating out-of-pocket costs for these life-saving screenings, the bill ensures that those who risk their lives daily are equipped with the tools needed to detect cancer early and improve treatment options and outcomes.
“September 11, 2001, will forever stand as one of the darkest days in our nation’s history. Coming from New Jersey, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound and lasting impact that 9/11 had on the first responders in our state and on those across the Hudson, and I have spoken with countless families who lost loved ones that day or in the years that followed. The devastation felt by these communities still resonates today, and we owe it to them to provide the care and support they need,” said Senator George Helmy.“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. This bill ensures they receive the support and dignity they deserve. Today, and always, we remember those lost on 9/11, and we commit to building a safer, healthier future for their families and the heroes who serve us.”
“Every day, our firefighters risk their lives to protect our communities, often at the expense of their own health as they are exposed to dangerous toxins that heighten their risk for cancer,” said Senator Booker. “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 critical resources and life-saving medical care.”
Cancer has become the leading cause of death among professional firefighters, claiming 66% of those who died in the line of duty between 2002 and 2019. Firefighters face a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer and are 14% more likely to die from it compared to the general population. This alarming disparity is driven by their regular exposure to life-threatening carcinogens on the job.
The FIRE Cancer Act was first introduced in the House by New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) and Congressman Anthony D’esposito (NY-4) and was endorsed by the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey, the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association, and the National Association of Government Employees.
“Senator Helmy, Senator Booker, and I are working together to pass the bipartisan, bicameral FIRE Cancer Act, which will ensure that our firefighters are screened for cancer on a regular basis at no out-of-pocket cost. It’s the least we can do to honor the immense sacrifices these heroes make to keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5th District), a member of the bipartisan Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “Everyone knows about the immediate dangers our firefighters face when they run into a burning building. But, what’s not often talked about nearly enough is the silent killer they come home with after putting out the fire. Let me make this very clear: early cancer detection saves lives, and the firefighters who always answer the call need resources to access cancer testing.”