Rockland Reporter

Today, Representatives Mike Lawler of New York and Marilyn Strickland of Washington introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at supporting military firefighters who have been exposed to PFAS chemicals. This announcement comes during Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month.

Military firefighters face a higher risk of exposure to PFAS, which has been linked to several health issues, including cancer. The proposed legislation seeks to create a compensation fund for current and former military firefighters and their survivors suffering from illnesses due to this exposure. Rep. Lawler emphasized the significance of addressing the crisis caused by toxic PFAS chemicals: "Their service has left far too many battling devastating health conditions, including cancer."

Rep. Strickland highlighted the need for compensation for work-related illnesses faced by military firefighters: “Military firefighters are directly exposed to PFAS chemicals while on the job.”

Jessica Hernandez from the Environmental Working Group commented on the Department of Defense's long-standing awareness of health risks posed by AFFF containing toxic PFAS: “Military firefighters have been on the front lines... all while being exposed to hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ linked to devastating, lifelong health conditions like cancer.” She praised the new legislation as a necessary step toward justice and urged lawmakers to support it.

General President Edward A. Kelly of the International Association of Firefighters also endorsed the bill, recognizing it as an important measure for supporting military firefighters facing medical challenges due to PFAS exposure.

Congressman Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District, covering parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.