[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 81 (Thursday, May 12, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E492]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               FEDERAL FIREFIGHTERS FAIRNESS ACT OF 2022

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. JOE NEGUSE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 11, 2022

  Mr. NEGUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Rule and my 
colleague's legislation, the Federal Firefighter Fairness Act.
  As wildfires grow larger and last longer, federal firefighters answer 
the call of duty, leaving behind their lives and families for months at 
a time. Our firefighters are routinely exposed to occupational hazards 
ranging from carbon monoxide to cancer-causing chemicals released 
during fires.
  I wholeheartedly support this legislation and efforts to establish a 
science-based list of diseases for which an automatic presumption of 
work-related illness would apply. This is a commonsense policy that 
ensures our firefighters get the care they deserve.
  I am thankful that House Leadership brought this legislation to a 
vote ahead of this year's wildfire season. Our communities are 
depending on federal fire crews to keep us safe and reduce the threat 
of wildfire--federal firefighters should be able to rely on the federal 
government for livable wages and healthy work conditions in return.
  That's why I introduced the Tim's Act, bipartisan legislation to 
overhaul federal firefighter pay, benefits and classification. I urge 
Congress to pass Tim's Act and recognize the needs of our brave 
wildland firefighters who risk their lives to keep our lands and our 
families safe.
  I encourage a yes vote and thank my colleague, Rep. Carbajal, for 
bringing this legislation.

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