Tim Hugo firefighter protection bill signed into law

Del. Tim Hugo’s bill to expand workers’ compensation benefits for Virginia firefighters, HB 1804, was signed into law on Monday. Hugo’s bill will amend the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act to add colon, brain, and testicular cancer to the list of cancers that are presumed to be an occupational disease for firefighters.

“I’d like to thank Del. Hugo for being the patron of this incredibly important legislation, and working to get bipartisan support for this bill. Without working across party lines this would have never become reality,” said local firefighter Robert Young, Vice President of the Fairfax County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Local 2068. “The women and men of Fairfax County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics (L2068) truly appreciate your hard work and dedication to getting this accomplished. This will go a long way in protecting the brave first responders all across the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

“Virginia firefighters put their lives on the line everyday to protect our families and communities. We owe it to them to make sure that all occupational related diseases they face are covered under the Workers’ Compensation Act,” said Del. Hugo. “I am proud to have worked with the Fairfax County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Local 2068 and firefighters like Robert Young to pass this vital legislation. I look forward to continuing to work with them on the issues affecting our first responders.”