In a significant move to protect the health and well-being of firefighters in New Hampshire, Governor Chris Sununu signed Senate Bill 352 into law on Tuesday. The bill, hailed as a life-saving measure by Manchester Fire Chief Ryan Cashin, aims to provide cancer screenings for both current and former firefighters.

New Hampshire has been actively working towards addressing the issue of firefighter cancer in recent years, but officials at the bill signing ceremony at the Manchester Fire Department highlighted the importance of this particular measure. With overwhelming bipartisan support, the bill passed both chambers of the Legislature, symbolizing a unified effort to prioritize firefighter health.

Firefighters face an increasing risk of cancer, a consequence often linked to the exposure they experience to hazardous smoke and chemicals on the job. Manchester Fire Marshal Peter Lennon, a recent cancer survivor himself, emphasized the significance of early detection in saving lives. Thanks to the screening program implemented in the city, Lennon's cancer was successfully treated, offering him hope for recovery.

The new law includes a provision of $5 million, allocated for two years, to cover the cost of cancer screenings as part of a pilot program. This financial support aims to reach every firefighter in the state, ensuring their safety and well-being. Jay Colbert, the vice president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, commended New Hampshire's leadership in addressing firefighter health and expressed his excitement over the groundbreaking development.

New Hampshire's pilot program is not only an important step for firefighters in the state but also serves as an example to the rest of the country. The hope is that the data collected during the program will contribute to the development of an effective long-term cancer screening plan. With this initiative, New Hampshire is leading the way in protecting the lives of its brave firefighters, setting a precedent for other states to follow.

The passing of Senate Bill 352 marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat firefighter cancer. By prioritizing early detection and offering screening services, New Hampshire is actively safeguarding the lives of those who risk their own safety to protect others.