Crisco backs bill to support first responders

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, joined his Senate colleagues Thursday to pass legislation that would require cities and towns to cover certain mental health injuries suffered on the job by police, as well as certain cancers suffered by firefighters, under their Workers’ Compensation policies. 

“Last year I had the honor of participating in Fire Ops 101, a day of intensive, hands-on activities designed to provide an understanding of the everyday life of firefighters,” Crisco said. 

State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco

“To see firsthand the dangers and challenges these heroes face on a daily basis makes you respect them all the more. Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect us and it is only right that we do whatever we can to support them. I’m proud to stand with them today.”

The bill rewrites the definition of ‘personal injury’ or ‘injury’ in Workers’ Compensation claims to include claims from a police officer who witnessed the death or immediate aftermath (within six hours) of one or more people who were intentionally murdered.

In the case of firefighters, an interior firefighter (one who goes inside buildings) or an arson investigator would be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits if they acquire any of the following conditions “arising out of and in the course of” their employment: Mahler’s Disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or any condition of cancer affecting the brain, skin, digestive system, endocrine system, respiratory system, lymphatic system, reproductive system, urinary system or hematological system.

Under the bill, such cancers are presumed to have been suffered in the line of duty as a result of the inhalation, absorption or ingestion of noxious fumes or poisonous gases, unless the contrary be shown by a preponderance of evidence.

Firefighters would be required to undergo a physical exam before being hired and would have to have worked for at least five years in the department, or for 15 years as a volunteer. Firefighters who smoke would not be eligible for these benefits.

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. 

This is a press release from Crisco's office.