Firefighters face danger daily, but some of their risks are not as obvious as a raging fire or a car wreck. As these Hoosiers work hard to protect lives and property, it is important to do all we can to support them. This session, state lawmakers are working on legislation to protect the health and privacy of firefighters.
A health risk to firefighters can be found in their turnout gear. PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are dubbed "forever chemicals" because they are nearly impossible to eliminate, and they are linked to various forms of cancer and other health conditions. PFAS are commonly used in firefighter gear because their heat- and moisture-resistant properties. But the chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, which could cause health issues. House Enrolled Act 1341 would require departments to only purchase firefighter clothing and other gear if it contains a label stating whether or not it contains PFAS. This label would serve as a reminder to firefighters to limit their contact with the gear and store it in designated areas to reduce the risk of exposure to others.
As we spread awareness about PFAS, we are also taking steps to begin screening firefighters for these cancer-linked chemicals. Under House Enrolled Act 1219, a PFAS biomonitoring pilot program would be launched, with the goal of screening 1,000 past and present firefighters throughout Indiana. The testing would be non-invasive through a mouth swab or finger prick, and results and recommendations for decreasing PFAS levels and exposure would be reported to the state. Our goal is to identify solutions to help limit exposure to protect against serious health risks.
Unfortunately, diseases are not the only risk to these Hoosiers. In 2021, a firefighter in Evansville was attacked while on a medic run. He feared a follow-up attack and attempted to have his home address withheld from public record, but his request was denied. House Enrolled Act 1578 would help protect firefighters' privacy by preventing their personal information from appearing on public websites. Currently, law enforcement, judges and victims of domestic abuse are shielded from having their names and addresses made public thanks to state law. This legislation would offer anonymity to hardworking public safety officials.
Firefighters are integral to our communities and deserve our support. After being supported by the Indiana House of Representatives and Indiana Senate, these bills are now headed to the governor's desk to be considered as new laws. To learn more, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) represents House District 69,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Scott and Washington counties.
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