Local Firefighters and Politicians Push for Enhanced Cancer Protection

WHITESBORO – Representatives from several local fire departments joined two state politicians in calling for New York to add more benefits to firefighters who develop cancer in the line of duty.

At the Whitesboro Fire Department Thursday morning, New York Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi and Senator Joseph Griffo urged their colleagues in the State Legislature to pass bills they co-sponsored which they say would include more forms of cancer linked to fighting fires to the Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefit Law. The bill passed the Senate in the spring, but its counterpart has yet to come to a vote in the Assembly.

Standing alongside Brindisi and Griffo were firefighters from the Believe 271 Foundation, which provides support to firefighters who have been diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. Believe 271 founder and former Whitesboro chief Brian McQueen discussed how important the legislation is to the firefighting community.

“I know firsthand just how devastating the words ‘you have cancer’ are. While my cancer is thankfully in remission, I must still make regular trips to my oncologist, not knowing if the disease has returned. Presumptive cancer coverage for volunteer firefighters is an absolute must, as no firefighter should have to face cancer alone. Thank you to State Senator Joseph Griffo, as well as bill sponsor State Senator Michael Nozzolio, for their leadership on this issue. And with State Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi’s support, the New York State Assembly must do the right thing, and pass this bill,” said McQueen in an email statement.

Griffo’s office says “Under this proposed legislation, after a volunteer firefighter has entered the fire service upon successfully passing a physical examination that did not reveal any evidence of cancer, it will be presumed that any cancerous conditions that develop later are the result of that firefighter performing their duties.” The expanded coverage would include several different forms of cancer.

Brindisi and Griffo are asking the public to sign petitions in the hopes of creating momentum toward an Assembly vote. Visit www.fasny.com/fightcancer for more information.