Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility House Fire & EMS Caucus applauds committee approval of free cancer screenings for firefighters

House Fire & EMS Caucus applauds committee approval of free cancer screenings for firefighters

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    June 11, 2026 | 2:16 PM

HARRISBURG, June 11 – Members of the Pennsylvania House Fire & EMS Caucus today issued the following statements on the Pennsylvania House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee’s approval of H.B. 2394:

“Our volunteer and professional firefighters put their lives on the line every time they respond to an emergency call. There are obvious risks when your job is to run toward a fire instead of away from it, said Rep. Greg Scott, D-Montgomery.

“Still, among the leading causes of death for firefighters is not just fire-related injury, but cancer. Cancer we now know is caused by repeated exposure to cancer-causing chemicals, like PFAS, found in firefighting foams and protective gear.

“Today’s committee approval of Representative Ciresi’s legislation to ensure all firefighters have access to annual cancer screenings is an important step in protecting our firefighting community and their families. I applaud the committee’s recognition of this often-invisible occupational hazard and their dedication to our volunteer and professional firefighters statewide.”

"Cancer is a devastating diagnosis. But if caught early and treatment can start, outcomes can be greatly improved,” said Rep. Lisa Borowski, co-chair of the caucus.

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every time they respond to a neighbor in need. It is time for us to respond to them and their health needs. House Bill 2394 will provide the resources they need to get potentially life-saving cancer screenings without incurring additional cost. This is a small way our grateful commonwealth can say 'thank you.'"

The bill would create a statewide program to ensure firefighters – both volunteer and professional – can receive annual cancer screenings at no cost, even when those services are not covered by their health insurance.