On July 7, 2011, Governor Tom Corbett signed House Bill 797 into law, as Act 46 of 2011, amending the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act by giving firefighters protection against the risk of cancer. The legislation adds a presumption that cancer suffered by veteran firefighters is related to their work duties. More information can be found in the related press release.
This new law, of course, has been well received by groups associated with firefighters in Pennsylvania, such as Delaware County Firemen’s Association, Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, International Association of Firefighters Local 2781 and Firehouse.com.
As attorneys representing injured workers in PA, we applaud the Pennsylvania legislature for passing this measure, and providing support to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for us every day of the week.