Senators Collins, Slotkin Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide Cancer Screenings for DoD Firefighters

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Susan Collins, co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) have introduced the bipartisan Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act, legislation that would provide no-cost cancer screenings to federal firefighters employed by the Department of Defense.

Firefighters face unique occupational risks on the job, including frequent exposure to toxic substances like PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam and turnout gear. These exposures significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancer. This bill would require the Department of Defense to provide their firefighters with free, routine screenings for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, as well as any other cancer that fire fighters are at heightened risk of developing.

"Cancer remains the leading cause of death among firefighters, who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our communities," said Senator Collins. "When these brave men and women respond to fires and emergencies, they are often exposed to toxic chemicals that increase their risk of cancer and other serious health conditions. This bipartisan bill would improve data collection on these risks so that we can better equip our nation's fire fighters with the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe."

"Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect others, and in doing they are unfortunately exposed to dangerous chemicals that increase their risk of cancer," said Senator Slotkin. "Ensuring that these hardworking men and women have access to regular, free cancer screenings is the least we can do. This bill is simple. It's about prevention, early detection, and giving fire fighters every possible chance to return home safe to their families."

"Regular cancer screenings are one of the most critical components for protecting firefighters' health," said IAFF General President Edward A. Kelly. "Early cancer detection gives our members the best treatment options, increasing their odds for a healthy return to their families and jobs. Given our increased risk of cancer, DOD's failure to provide early cancer screenings to firefighters is appalling. The IAFF applauds Senators Slotkin and Collins for introducing this common-sense, lifesaving legislation. We call on Congress to swiftly pass this legislation to ensure federal firefighters have every opportunity to stay healthy."

Senator Collins has been a longstanding advocate for Maine's firefighters. Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured nearly $45 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) to repair, expand, or construct new fire stations in 28 communities across the State of Maine. Most recently, she spoke at the grand opening of the new Rumford fire station, a project supported by $1 million in CDS she secured for the town.

The complete text of the bill can be read here.

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