A bipartisan bill co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff aimed at bolstering benefits for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders suffering from service-related cancer has passed the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation, which now proceeds to the full Senate for a vote, also extends benefits to the survivors of public safety officers who succumb to such illnesses.
Senator Ossoff emphasized the critical role of first responders and the bipartisan effort behind the bill. “I am grateful for the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. Bringing Republicans and Democrats together, we’re advancing a bipartisan bill to strengthen benefits and support for law enforcement personnel with cancer linked to their service,” he stated.
A 2010 CDC study highlights the increased cancer risks faced by firefighters, showing they have a 9% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general U.S. population.
This legislative initiative underscores the commitment to addressing the health challenges faced by first responders and providing them with the necessary support and benefits.