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DeSantis Signs Firefighter Cancer Benefits Into Law
May 4, 2019
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a measure into law providing cancer benefits for firefighters. With the signing of this legislation, Florida joins 45 other states that provide a cancer benefit to these first responders.
“Here in Florida, we look after our first responders and I am honored to sign this bill to help ensure our firefighters who are battling cancer have the tools and benefits they need,” said DeSantis. “These men and women are true heroes, who often are the first on scene and the last to leave during an emergency.”
“This marks an enormous victory for these brave men and women in their fight against cancer,” said Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis. “Today, Florida tells every firefighter battling cancer, every firefighter afraid of getting cancer, and every child who dreams of being a firefighter that we are in their corner. I’m proud that we can now add Florida to the list of states that provides this essential benefit for firefighters.”
While treatment for cancer is often covered already existing health plans, the new law requires the firefighter’s employer to cover out-of-pocket expenses such as copays and deductibles.
The Florida League of Cities called the law an “unfunded mandate” in a letter to DeSantis.
“In theory, it sounds like a worthwhile initiative, which is why it was met with great fanfare during Legislative Session. However, when you dig into the details, this is a significant unfunded mandate with widespread negative impact on property taxpayers,” the League said in the letter.
Comments
2 Responses to “DeSantis Signs Firefighter Cancer Benefits Into Law”
The carcinogens that firefighters could be exposed to over years of fighting fires is a big list even with all of the protective countermeasures in place. Yes it is going to cost money, and yes it could be years before a cancer develops.
It is a shame that what is only thought of is the service that is provided and the cost of that service, and not the public servants behind that service. So Florida is finally joining 45 other states and it’s sickening the legislators keep patting themselves on the back for a job done.
The Florida League of Cities is correct. It is unfunded mandate. It will require a tax increase somewhere to be paid for. Why couldn’t we let counties or municipalities decide if this is something they can afford instead of the State dictating this change? Same reason everything else happens in politics; get that resume enhanced, picture in the paper, be able to make empathetic statements (like the ones in this article).