house resolution no.208
Reps. Yaroch, Sabo, Breen, Bezotte, Haadsma, Sneller, Steenland, Weiss and Witwer offered the following resolution:
Whereas, Fire fighters serve our community by putting our safety above their own; and
Whereas, Fire fighters often work in a toxic environment of smoke, soot, and other carcinogens; and
Whereas, According to research, fire fighters have a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% greater chance of dying from cancer than the general population; and
Whereas, Fire fighter occupational cancer is a leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in fire fighters and has reached epidemic levels; and
Whereas, Studies have found a direct correlation between the chemical exposures fire fighters experience on the job and their increased risk for cancer; and
Whereas, As of January 1, 2022, the State of Michigan has extended cancer presumption to all firefighters and added three forms of cancers to the list of covered cancers, making Michigan a leading state in supporting firefighters with cancer; and
Whereas, Early detection of cancer through routine screening leads to earlier treatment and better disease outcomes, including improved survival and reduced morbidity; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare January 2022 as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.