Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) is encouraging his colleagues to join him in supporting bi-partisan legislation sponsored by state Sen. Michael Nozzolio and Assemblymember Alieen Gunther to help some of our most selfless neighbors access needed health care. The bill (A.5518/S.3891) would expand The Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefits Law to cover cancer treatment.

Palmesano co-sponsors the legislation in the Assembly.

“I’ve often said that volunteer firefighters are the backbone of our rural communities. These brave men and women are so deserving of our support. Making sure that their health benefits include coverage for cancer treatment after they have risked their lives to protect our families in times of danger and distress is beyond reasonable. This is legislation that can literally save lives,” said Palmesano.

The bill has the support of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

“Cancer is the scourge of the fire service,” said FASNY President Robert McConville. “The brave volunteer firefighters of New York State are dedicated to keeping their fellow citizens safe, but too many pay a tragic price for their courage. No volunteer firefighter should have to face cancer alone. Thanks to State Senator Nozzolio and Assemblymember Gunther, the New York State legislature is in position to tremendously ease the burden of the brave volunteers who are battling cancer. On behalf of FASNY and all of New York’s volunteer firefighters, I urge the State Senate and Assembly to pass this bill and send it to Governor Cuomo’s desk.”

Palmesano noted that these volunteers are regularly exposed to carcinogenic materials while they fight fires. They’re diagnosed with cancer at a much higher rate than the general population.

“The sad reality is that volunteer firefighters who make it out of a burning building alive may have only started their fight for survival,” said Palmesano. “Making sure they are covered for cancer treatment is just and necessary. We need to get this bill passed as soon as possible.”