AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature voted to advance LD 213 Thursday, a measure sponsored by Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, that would ensure firefighters receive equitable health care coverage for reproductive system cancer.
Under the Maine Workers' Compensation Act of 1992, there is a rebuttable presumption that a firefighter who has contracted prostate cancer or testicular cancer has contracted the cancer as a result of that firefighters employment. This bill adds gynecologic cancer to the definition of cancer. Millett's bill would allow for all Maine firefighters to receive comparable protection no matter their sex.
"Firefighters tend to their communities during the most trying times. They risk their lives every day, but the glaring reality is that firefighters can face dire medical consequences as a result of their work," said Millett. "This bill is about basic equity and would simply ensure that firefighters receive the same coverage regardless of their sex."
The bill now heads to the governor's desk for her signature.
Millett is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents District 30, part of Cape Elizabeth. She sits on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. Prior to representing House District 30, Millett served eight years in the State Senate, representing District 29, which includes South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and part of Scarborough.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Millett] c. 812-1111