ATLANTA — State Representative Christian Coomer (R-Cartersville) today commented on the overwhelming passage of House Bill 146 by the Georgia House of Representatives. This legislation would require fire departments to provide adequate insurance coverage for firefighters who have been diagnosed with cancer.
“There is ample evidence to demonstrate firefighters suffer a higher incidence of cancer, presumably arising from the dangerous nature of their job and heir interaction with burning synthetic fabrics and fibers,” said Rep. Coomer. “This bill will help those who suffer the consequences of running into harm’s way while others run to safety.”
House Bill 146 would require fire departments to maintain insurance coverage for firefighters who have served 12 consecutive months on duty and are disabled and unable to continue to work as a result of cancer. Insurance benefits would include a lump-sum benefit of $25,000 or $6,250 based on the severity of the cancer. Additionally, if the firefighter is unable to perform his or her duties because of the diagnosis, a monthly benefit equal to 60 percent of the firefighter’s monthly salary at the time of diagnosis, or a monthly benefit of $5,000, would begin six months after the firefighter’s diagnosis and continue for 36 months. HB 146 also provides coverage for volunteer firefighters, who would receive a monthly benefit of $1,500 per month for 36 months. If the firefighter wishes to continue with their insurance coverage after retirement, the firefighter would be able to maintain their insurance coverage but would be responsible for paying insurance premiums.
HB 146 will now go to the Senate for consideration.
For more information on HB 146, please click here.
Representative Christian Coomer represents the citizens of District 14, which includes portions of Bartow and Floyd counties. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2010, and currently serves as the House Majority Whip. He serves as a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation & Infrastructure and on the Banks & Banking, Transportation, Judiciary Non-Civil, Retirement, and Juvenile Justice committees.
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