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Recommendations released by task force studying cancer relief benefits for firefighters

A bill has been introduced in the Connecticut General Assembly to adopt the recommendations of a task force studying cancer relief benefits for firefighters.  Among the requirements is that at least two sets of turnout gear be provided to firefighters to ensure clean gear is worn while any contaminated gear is properly cleaned. 

The bulk of the bill deals with a firefighter's diagnosis of cancer.  According to the proposal, it would be presumed to come from the result of exposures on the job.  There are exceptions, including if the firefighter had a physical exam when joining the service showing the cancer, used tobacco products within 15 years of diagnosis, worked less than 5 years as a firefighter, had not not used respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment, or the claimed cancer is not one that is known to result from exposure to heat, radiation or a known carcinogen as determined by the International Agency for Research on Cancer or the National Toxicology Program of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. 

As an alternative to workers' compensation coverage for work related cancer, a fire department may purchase a separate, private insurance policy to cover firefighters' illnesses or injuries arising out of and in the course of employment.  Under the bill, the policy must provide benefits that are comparable, or better, than workers' compensation benefits.

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Joe Pags

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