Health benefits for volunteer firefighters could be strengthened in New York under legislation that cleared the Democratic-led state Senate this week. 

The measure would make permanent a law that covers disability determinations for volunteer firefighters who are facing lung disabilities. 

“Volunteer firefighters statewide often incur major diseases and ailments in the course of protecting our residents and businesses, so we must reciprocate and safeguard the health of these brave first responders whenever possible,” said Harckham. “This bill will eliminate a sunset clause for lung care while streamlining access to much deserved health benefits.”

The measure is meant to amend a 2006 law that provides lung health care benefits for volunteer firefighters. Currently, the law expires every two years and similar health benefits for full-time firefighters do not face an expiration every two years. 

If given final approval by the state Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul, the permanent extension could aid more than 80,000 volunteer firefighters in the state. 

“We would like to thank Senator Harckham for his hard work in getting this important piece of legislation again passed in the State Senate,” said Edward Tase, Jr., president of the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. “New York’s volunteer firefighters are exposed to dangerous chemicals while fighting fires that may cause lasting lung damage. FASNY wholeheartedly supports this legislation, which will take this long standing benefit and make it permanent, further strengthening this critical safety net for our volunteer firefighters. We are ready to work with the Assembly and we urge them to follow suit and pass this in their house.”