July 8, 2011 -- For 25 long years, the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association (PPFFA) has urged state lawmakers to enact legislation to protect fire fighters from exposure to dangerous toxins released from fires. Finally, the PPFFA has declared victory for its members.

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett signed the bill June 30, easily clearing both legislative chambers, making fire fighters eligible to received workers’ compensation if they can demonstrate exposure to carcinogens found in fumes. The legislation, HB 797, passed the Pennsylvania House by a vote of 200-1 and the Pennsylvania Senate approved the bill by a vote of 50-0.

Outgoing Governor Ed Rendell vetoed a cancer presumption measure in November 2010, that – despite overwhelming support in the legislature – some municipal officials said was too broad and could overwhelm drum-tight local budgets.

Rendell’s veto marked a bitter, though temporary setback in the long struggle to provide must-needed financial protection to the many fire fighters who develop life-threatening cancer in the course of their careers.

Under the new law, fire fighters may file a claim if they have been on the job for four or more continuous years and have established a previous clean bill of health. Fire fighters also must establish exposure to a leading carcinogen, including asbestos, benzene and wood dust, among many others. Fire fighters can file claims up to six years after leaving the fire service. Read the entire story by clicking here.