ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Democrats in the New York State Legislature introduced a bill that makes disability benefits for volunteer firefighters with lung diseases permanent. The legislation, also backed by Republicans, would get rid of the current annual renewal requirement so those injured on the job get lasting support.
The bill, S906/A447,7, amends chapter 606 of New York’s volunteer firefighters benefit law to secure permanent medical benefits for those who develop lung conditions during service. It creates a presumption that exposures to toxins, chemicals, and smoke cause those conditions.
Research from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shows firefighters face up to 14 times the risk of respiratory illnesses compared with the average adult. Supporters have said the bill would help head off rising costs in paid fire services that could lead to higher local taxes.
“The loss of income, benefits, and the burden of unforeseen medical expenses is a weight no firefighter or family should have to bear, especially when their only ‘mistake’ was selflessly serving their community,” said Maynard Fire Department Chief Jared Pearl, a volunteer firefighter and EMT for more than 34 years.
Currently, the bill is in the legislative committee, where panels of Assemblymembers and State Senators dissect the language and potential effects if implemented. If the changes clear the legislature and get signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, sunset dates on claims for lung-related disabilities would immediately disappear.“Our volunteer firefighters courageously protect our communities, often placing their own lives and health at risk,” according to Democratic Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon, who co-sponsored the bill in the Assembly. “It is our moral duty to ensure that those who safeguard our safety have the full and enduring support of the State of New York.”