Victoria, BC – Yesterday, Misty Van Popta, Conservative MLA for Langley–Walnut Grove, presented the Firefighters Health Act to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, a crucial piece of legislation designed to protect the health of the brave men and women who serve as our province’s firefighters.
“This bill is not a political issue, but a matter of public health and safety,” said Van Popta. “We owe it to the over 13,000 firefighters in this province to ensure that they have access to the health screenings they need, in order to detect and treat cancers at an early stage.”
The Firefighters Health Act calls for an update to the list of presumptive cancers and the introduction of a health strategy that includes earlier and more frequent screenings for firefighters. The bill was inspired by the stories of firefighters not eligible for cancer screenings due to their age.
Van Popta noted, “We all know a firefighter, whether as a friend or family member, and we know the toll this job takes on them. This bill is about ensuring that they are given the health care they deserve to continue protecting us.”
The proposed bill was developed with the intent of collaboration with BC Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA), Doctors of BC, and the relevant government ministries. The objective is a comprehensive, cooperative approach to updating health standards for firefighters to address the unique risks they face.
“During the fall 2024 campaign, both the government and opposition parties committed to supporting our firefighters. I am proud to bring forward this bill today and urge all members of this house to join me in making this a priority for the safety and health of those who risk their lives for us every day,” Van Popta said.
Van Popta also expressed gratitude to her local union, Local 4550, for inspiring the bill, and thanked all union locals who traveled to Victoria to advocate for better health outcomes for firefighters.
“Thank you for your courage, your hard work, and your dedication. This bill is for you,” said Van Popta. “May you never have to fight for your health again.”
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