Governor Murphy today signed legislation mandating access to periodic cancer screening examinations for firefighters who are not enrolled in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) but are eligible for enrollment through public employment.
Current law entitles a paid, full-time firefighter enrolled in the SHBP or employed by a public employer that does not participate in the SHBP to a cancer screening examination every three years. The new bill (S2890) extends this benefit to firefighters who waive their employer-sponsored health care but remain eligible for SHBP coverage through their public employment. The State will reimburse up to $1,250 per three-year period for each firefighter’s examination, regardless of their participation in their employer’s health care plan.
"Thousands of firefighters across the state put their lives on the line for their communities," said Governor Murphy. "We must do what we can to provide these incredible men and women with the health care they deserve. Preventive cancer screenings will not only save lives and reduce unnecessary suffering but also ensure our public servants remain healthy."
"This law will help ensure our firefighters, who are regularly exposed to carcinogens through their line of work, will always have access to periodic cancer screenings," said Senator Greenstein. "Previous law left a portion of our firefighters out of this guaranteed coverage, unnecessarily leaving them at higher risk. With this reform, they will be better protected and more incentivized to obtain preventative care, which will save lives."
“Early detection can make a real difference in the outcome of a cancer diagnosis,” said Senator Joe Cryan. “These cancer screenings can save lives, prevent needless suffering, and avoid costly treatment. The firefighters who serve our communities and protect our residents have more than earned the right for this care. This law will provide more incentive and support to have this preventive care done.”
“Firefighters can be exposed to hazardous toxins, leading to a higher risk of cancer,” said Assemblyman Sterley Stanley. “Cancer screening leads to early detection and early diagnosis, both of which give cancer patients the best possible chance for a successful outcome. I am thrilled to see this bill become law because I know the profound impact it will have on the lives of so many first responders.”
“Professional firefighters put themselves, their safety, and their health on the line each day, not hesitating to take heroic risks to save someone they likely don’t even know,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson. “Now thanks to the law being signed today many more of these brave individuals can gain access to lifesaving cancer screening exams.”
“Firefighters across the state work to keep each of us safe in our communities risking their lives on a routine basis,” said Assemblywoman Shanique Speight. “We need to do what we can to protect them. By reimbursing local employers for free cancer screening exams we are making sure their health and safety is a priority.”
"The signing of A3939/S2890 by Gov. Phil Murphy is the culmination of our comprehensive cancer screening program for active career firefighters," said Matthew Caliente President of the Professional Firefighters of New Jersey."This legislation eliminates the financial burden on our municipalities and fire districts... This ensures our members will have access... In New Jersey Firefighter Glen Seaboldt... diagnosed with Stage 2 non-Hodgkin lymphoma... early treatment... currently in remission.... Our legislators' support... demonstrates commitment... Thank you Gov.Murphy..."
Eddie Donnelly President New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association stated: "Today let us remember NJ FMBA Legislative Chairman Bobby Allen... recently succumbed valiant fight against cancer.... Thank you Governor Murphy ... Cancer number one killer Firefighters..."
"This bill signing another step forward Firefighters receive early detection screenings..." added Robert Ordway President New Jersey State Firemen's Association.
