House approves health care coverage for firefighters

OKLAHOMA CITY — A measure designed to support Oklahoma firefighters by addressing the risks they face related to occupational cancer has passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Presented by Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, House Bill 2011, also known as the Fighting Chance for Firefighters Act, would allow the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to provide local firefighters access to the state's health care benefits under the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Plans.

"The Fighting Chance for Firefighters Act would make life-saving cancer screenings more accessible while covering the costs for these vital services," said Pae. "This legislation ensures local firefighters can receive health insurance benefits comparable to those offered to state employees, helping them stay protected while they serve our communities."

Health experts say cancer is the leading cause of death for active-duty firefighters. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified firefighting as a carcinogenic occupation due to the harmful exposure to various chemicals, including those found in smoke, firefighting foams, diesel exhaust, flame retardants and hazardous building materials. These carcinogens, along with substances like formaldehyde, cigarette smoke and asbestos, have been linked to an elevated risk of cancer among firefighters, experts say.

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.