ALBANY, NY – Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D- Utica/Rome) proudly announces her co-sponsorship of Assembly Bill 4477, legislation introduced by Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg, aimed at permanently protecting volunteer firefighters under the Volunteer Firefighters Benefit Law. The bill ensures that volunteer firefighters experiencing lung diseases or respiratory malfunctions caused by their brave service receive essential disability benefits.
“Our volunteer firefighters courageously protect our communities, often placing their own lives and health at risk,” stated Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “It is our moral duty to ensure that those who safeguard our safety have the full and enduring support of the State of New York.”
Volunteer firefighters regularly encounter hazardous toxins and harmful gases during their courageous service. According to medical research and data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), firefighters are up to 14 times more likely to be diagnosed with respiratory conditions compared to the general population. This includes chronic bronchitis, asthma, and other lung impairments caused by prolonged exposure to smoke, chemicals, and combustion byproducts. This legislation makes permanent critical protections, which otherwise would expire on June 30 of this year, reinforcing New York State’s unwavering commitment to its volunteer firefighters.
This legislation has received heartfelt support from leaders who have seen firsthand the sacrifices and struggles of volunteer firefighters. Among them is Maynard Fire Department Chief Jared A. Pearl, who has served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for over 34 years. Chief Pearl brings a deeply personal perspective, having experienced the tragic loss of a firefighter in his own department to a job-related illness. His unwavering support for Assembly Bill 4477 is rooted in a commitment to protect those who dedicate their lives to serving others, and to ensure that no firefighter or their family ever has to face such loss without the support they deserve.
“As a Fire Chief and Volunteer Firefighter/AEMT with over 34 years of service, I strongly support Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D–Utica/Rome) and her co-sponsorship of Assembly Bill 4477. This critical legislation would permanently protect volunteer firefighters under the Volunteer
Firefighters Benefit Law, ensuring those suffering from lung diseases or respiratory conditions caused by their courageous service receive the disability benefits they deserve.”
“Tragically, I’ve experienced the heartbreak of losing a firefighter to a diagnosed job-related illness, just 88 days after his diagnosis. His son, also a member of our department, witnessed with us firsthand the devastating impact this had on their family. The loss of income, benefits, and the burden of unforeseen medical expenses is a weight no firefighter or family should have to bear, especially when their only ‘mistake’ was selflessly serving their community.”
“Our volunteer firefighters put on their turnout gear and answer the call; day or night, rain or shine; without asking for anything in return. They save lives and protect property, all without a paycheck. It’s long overdue that we step up for them, just as they have stepped up for us.”
“Protecting these heroes and their families is not only a moral obligation, it’s also practical. Without volunteers, the cost of paid fire services would significantly raise taxes in our communities. This bill is a necessary step to ensure fairness, dignity, and long-term support for our volunteer firefighters.”
“I urge the public and lawmakers to stand behind this bill. Let’s do what’s right.”
Also lending his voice is Brian McQueen, President of Believe 271, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to volunteer firefighters, EMTs, and members of ladies auxiliaries in Oneida and Herkimer Counties who are diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses, including cancer. As both a cancer survivor and a longtime advocate for firefighter health, McQueen emphasizes the critical importance of legislation like Assembly Bill 4477.
“Our volunteer firefighters are the unsung heroes of our communities across our state, facing immense risks and challenges to keep us safe. Yet, the dangers they encounter on the job can sometimes lead to serious health conditions, including heart and lung diseases. As an occupational cancer survivor, a cancer I fought from my job protecting my community, legislation such as this is paramount in the fight against cancer, the leading cause of firefighter deaths in the US. This is a major step in the need for a state cancer screening legislation for volunteer and career firefighters.”
This legislation, now under review by the Assembly Committee on Local Governments, has garnered bipartisan support and is actively moving through the legislative process. Assemblywoman Buttenschon urges fellow lawmakers and constituents alike to support this life-saving bill. Assemblywoman Buttenschon has long championed the needs of first responders and volunteers, and her support of Assembly Bill 4477 reaffirms her unwavering commitment to ensuring their health and safety. This legislation represents her continued dedication to advocating for those who selflessly serve their communities, and she remains steadfast in her mission to provide lasting protections for New York’s volunteer firefighters.
