Tucson Council Approves Workers’ Comp for Firefighters Battling Cancer

The Tucson City Council has granted workers’ compensation to two firefighters diagnosed with cancer, a significant decision made during a council meeting on October 3, 2023. This approval follows their earlier claims being denied, sparking a show of solidarity among nearly thirty firefighters who attended the session. The firefighters expressed their support with a standing ovation once the council confirmed the coverage.

The affected firefighters, both in their 30s, were diagnosed with thyroid cancer, with one diagnosed last year and the other in early 2023. Initially, their claims for treatment were rejected. Following this, the City Council took decisive action by authorizing the city manager and city attorney to classify all adenocarcinomas as presumptive cancers for peace officers, firefighters, and fire investigators.

Clayton Black, president of the Tucson Fire Fighters Association, praised this decision, stating, “We finally got them what they deserved. We knew that’s the way it should be.” He highlighted the importance of recognizing the growing issue of cancer among firefighters and the need for appropriate measures to support those affected.

During the council meeting, Councilwoman Nikki Lee commended Mayor Regina Romero for prioritizing this matter on the agenda. Lee pointed out that cancer is the leading cause of fatalities among firefighters in the United States. She emphasized the council’s responsibility in providing better support to those who protect the community.

In a related statement, Orion Godfrey, the cancer coordinator for the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona, referenced a policy issued by the Arizona Industrial Commission. This policy asserts that any disease affecting a firefighter’s health, including adenocarcinoma, is presumed to be an occupational disease. Godfrey noted that the firefighters’ original claims were denied due in part to a grammatical oversight in the policy, specifically the absence of an Oxford comma in the description of eligible conditions. He elaborated, “(The insurance provider) stands on, because that comma is not there, that adenocarcinoma has to be of the respiratory tract.”

Black further explained the complexities surrounding workers’ compensation for presumptive cancers. He noted that early cancer diagnoses are becoming more common in firefighters, partly due to improved medical interventions. While early detection is beneficial, securing coverage remains a significant hurdle. “If a claim is denied and goes through the appeal process, it can create a lasting impact on future claims,” he said.

The approval of these claims represents a pivotal moment for Tucson’s firefighting community, reflecting a broader acknowledgment of the risks firefighters face in their profession. By granting these benefits, the City Council aims to ensure that those who serve the community receive the necessary support during their health battles.

As the discussion on firefighter health continues, local leaders and associations are encouraged to advocate for stronger protections and support systems for all firefighters facing similar challenges. This recent development not only highlights the importance of addressing occupational hazards but also emphasizes the need for systematic changes in policies that affect the well-being of emergency responders.