RELEASE: Gottheimer’s Bipartisan FIRE Cancer Act Introduced in the Senate by Helmy and Booker

Above: Gottheimer in Hackensack announcing his new FIRE Cancer Act to provide all firefighters with early cancer detection tests.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer announced that his bipartisan Firefighter Investments to Recognize Exposure to Cancer Act (FIRE Cancer Act), has been introduced in the Senate by Senator George Helmy (D-NJ). The FIRE Cancer Act will save lives by providing federal investments so that all firefighters across America can access multi-cancer early detection tests and other preventative tests at no out-of-pocket cost — no matter if they’re volunteer or professional firefighters.

Full text of the FIRE Cancer Act can be found here.

Between 2002 and 2019, cancer caused 66% of the professional firefighter line-of-duty deaths. Firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer, and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer, than the general American population. Firefighters are often exposed to toxic chemicals at high levels, including cancer-causing carcinogens present during their responses and at the fire station on their turnout gear.

The FIRE Cancer Act is endorsed by the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey, the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association, and the National Association of Government Employees.

“Senator Helmy and I are working together to pass the bipartisan, bicameral FIRE Cancer Act, which will ensure that our firefighters are screened for cancer on a regular basis at no out-of-pocket cost. It’s the least we can do to honor the immense sacrifices these heroes make to keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), a member of the bipartisan Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “Everyone knows about the immediate dangers our firefighters face when they run into a burning building. But, what’s not often talked about nearly enough is the silent killer they come home with after putting out the fire. Let me make this very clear: early cancer detection saves lives, and the firefighters who always answer the call need resources to access cancer testing.” 

“September 11, 2001, will forever stand as one of the darkest days in our nation’s history. Coming from New Jersey, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound and lasting impact that 9/11 had on the first responders in our state and on those across the Hudson, and I have spoken with countless families who lost loved ones that day or in the years that followed. The devastation felt by these communities still resonates today, and we owe it to them to provide the care and support they need,” said Senator George Helmy. “The FIRE Cancer Act is about more than healthcare—it’s about honoring the sacrifice of firefighters who risk their lives for us every day. This bill ensures they receive the support and dignity they deserve. Today, and always, we remember those lost on 9/11, and we commit to building a safer, healthier future for their families and the heroes who serve us.”

“The PFANJ has led the way to pass legislation bringing firefighter cancer screenings to New Jersey career firefighters, and we proudly stand with our friends, Senator Helmy and Congressman Gottheimer, to help bring our concept to all firefighters across America. The evidence is clear that cancer is, and will continue to be, the leading occupational illness affecting firefighters,” said PFANJ President Matthew Caliente. “We applaud Senator Helmy and Congressman Gottheimer for recognizing this ever growing threat to the health and safety of all firefighters and for the leadership needed to bring our concerns to the Congressional floor. We ask all lawmakers across the country to follow his lead and support this legislation.”

“New Jersey has long been known as an innovative state, and that includes the thoughtful legislation and policies our lawmakers have championed over the years. I couldn’t be more thankful that two great Jersey leaders, Senator Helmy and Congressman Gottheimer, are tirelessly working to get the backs of our firefighters.” said New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJ FMBA) President Eddie Donnelly. “Whether it’s been grants to make our firefighters safer; the development of the national Cancer Registry to track incidents of this dreaded disease; or now funding to regularly test the men and women of the fire service if they are struck as a result of their lifesaving efforts so that they can receive early treatment; the work to protect our community’s first responders is often born right here in our state. We appreciate the hard work of Senator Helmy and Congressman Gottheimer to champion this legislation, and the NJ FMBA pledges its full support to see this legislation signed into law.”

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