Rep. McCarty Supports Keynote Legislation Passed this Week

HARTFORD — On the first night of the 2016 session that marched on past the stroke of midnight, the House of Representatives approved a stand-out bill to expand wage replacement benefits to current and former firefighters suffering from cancer contracted directly from their job. It passed with the support of Public Health Committee member State Rep. Kathleen McCarty (R-38).

H.B. 5262, An Act Establishing a Firefighters Cancer Relief Program, is co-sponsored by 68 legislators – including Rep. McCarty – and was conceded without a single opposing vote. If it becomes law, the program will establish an account run by the Connecticut State Firefighters Association and funded by a small portion of e911 phone bill fees.

In previous years, similar proposals failed to pass through the General Assembly because funds would be absorbed from municipalities. This year, the lawmakers were able to agree to eliminate the idea of creating another municipal mandate out of this legislation.

Beginning on July 1, 2019, volunteer firefighters and fire marshals, investigators and inspectors who have been working and in compliance with OSHA requirements for at least five years; and have not used tobacco for 15 years; will be eligible for up to two years of these benefits if they can show via medical screenings that they contracted cancer as a direct result of their professional environment. Individuals who leave service and continue to receive annual physicals will remain eligible for five years after leaving.

“I understand the physical toll and health risks that such a demanding job can have on our firefighters,” said Rep. McCarty. “The emergency services in our state – and especially in my district – are highly esteemed because of their unrelenting dedication to the safety of our residents. I believe this bill properly gratifies them for all they do.”

This bill awaits further action in the Senate before session adjourns on May 4th.

Rep. McCarty represents the 38th district of Waterford and Montville.