AUGUSTA - Rep. Scott Landry, D-Farmington, introduced a bill Thursday to help local fire departments limit firefighters' exposure to harmful chemicals.
"Firefighters are at a significantly increased risk for cancer because of the carcinogens they are encounter while on the job," said Landry. "It's time that we gave them the tools they need to minimize their exposure to toxic chemicals. Firefighters respond at all hours to protect our safety, and we should be doing all we can to keep them safe, too."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cancer is the number one cause of death among firefighters.
LD 516 would create the Firefighter Safety Equipment Fund, allowing the Maine Fire Protection Services Committee to provide grants to fire departments for the purchase and installation of certain equipment that can help limit firefighters' exposure to chemicals.
Landry introduced the bill after discussion with Farmington firefighter Steve Bunker, who battled a rare form of brain cancer called central nervous system lymphoma. Bunker wanted to prevent other firefighters from going through the same experience.
Eligible equipment purchases would include diesel vehicle exhaust systems, which reduce exposure to high concentrations of toxic particulates and gases found in diesel exhaust. According to the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, workers exposed to diesel exhaust are at risk of both short-term and long-term health effects, including lung cancer.
Grant funds could also be used for the purchase and installation of heavy duty extractor washing machines, which are used to remove contamination from protective apparel worn by firefighters.
The Legislature referred Landry's bill to the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, which will schedule a public hearing in the coming weeks.
Through the Legislature's website, members of the public can view public hearing schedules, sign up to testify live before the committee and access a livestream of the committee hearings online.
Landry is serving his third term in the Maine House, representing Chesterville and Farmington. He serves as House chair of the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee and is a member of the Marine Resources Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Landry], c. 305-965-2744