Cancer Presumption Bill Passes in the HouseClick here to view the complete record in the House Journal. You will see who voted for and against the bill, the vote for immediate effect, and comments from several members of the House explaining why they voted no. Firefighter Cancer Bill Passes Under HB 4401, firefighters with respiratory tract, bladder, skin, brain, kidney, blood, and lymphatic cancers could make a claim on the basis that the hazards of the workplace caused the injury. The bill also covers public officials who contract a disease through the handling of hazardous chemicals. House Republicans who opposed the bill put up a variety of amendments on the theme that it should not be presumed that firefighters with cancer automatically got the disease through work-related activity. The primary sponsor of these amendments was Rep. Lorence WENKE (R-Richland). However, each of Wenke's amendments, including one that would have excluded firefighters who were married to a smoker, were met with a sea of red "no" votes, and then withdrawn. I believe those who drag hoses in to burning buildings and carry guns on duty should be well compensated," Wenke argued, on final passage. But I oppose this bill because it would give firefighters [who have cancer] guaranteed workman's compensation whether there were other factors or not. In the end it will be the taxpayers who pay the bill. However, Rep. Matt GILLARD (D-Alpena) framed his argument in simple (perhaps political) terms. This issue is simple: Firefighters good. Cancer bad, Gillard said. HB 4401, was sponsored by Rep. Steve TOBOCMAN (D-Detroit). (reprinted from MIRS News) Thanks to everyone who contacted their Representative. Please contact your Representative and thank them for the passage of HB 4401. Use the following link for easy access to your Representative. You can even e-mail them directly. A phone call is much better than email! Find Your Representative Now! (NOTE: Link opens new window) |