Renewed push in Tallahassee to provide ‘safety net' for firefighters with cancer

There’s a new renewed push in Tallahassee to help firefighters who develop cancer because of their jobs.

Florida lawmakers will take up a bill that would require city or county fire departments to help pay for cancer treatment for firefighters.

A $25,000 payment would also be made to the firefighter upon receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Action News Jax has previously reported that firefighters have a nine percent greater risk of cancer than the general population.

First responders are often exposed to toxins when fighting fires.

This is a similar bill to those that have died during session in previous years.

The Florida League of Cities, for example, has opposed related bills because they are essentially unfunded mandates.

Cox Media Group

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