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Cancer benefits assured

O’Brien co-sponsors measure helping Ohio firefighters

WARREN — Ohio lawmakers passed legislation that could provide more benefits for firefighters who get cancer as a presumed result of their work.

The measure, co-sponsored in the House by state Rep. Michael J. O’Brien, D-Warren, addresses how causes of such cancer are viewed when it comes to getting benefits through workers’ compensation and the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund. Under the bill, when firefighters develop cancer under certain circumstances, it would be presumed to be a result of their occupation. That could help them access more benefits.

The bill will provide coverage for any firefighter disabled by cancer — full-time or volunteer — who has worked for at least six years on hazardous duty, unless the employer can demonstrate otherwise.

“Firefighters go to work every day knowing there’s a possibility that they could be in an accident that could change their life and affect their families forever. However, firefighters must also grapple with the heightened risk of developing cancer on top of their already dangerous work conditions,” said O’Brien. “This legislation is the least that we can do for these courageous men and women who sacrifice their life and good health for the safety and well-being of us all.”

The House and Senate approved the bill Wednesday, sending it on for Gov. John Kasich’s consideration. His approval would make Ohio the 37th state in the U.S. with a presumptive cancer law.

news@tribtoday.com

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