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HB 1602

Counties - No-Cost Preventive Cancer Screenings for Volunteer and Retired Volunteer Firefighters

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 17 co-sponsors

HB 1602 mandates Maryland counties provide free preventive cancer screenings to volunteer firefighters, addressing occupational health risks without specified state funding mechanisms.

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Bill Summary · HB 1602

Legislative bill overview

HB 1602 requires Maryland counties to provide no-cost preventive cancer screenings to volunteer firefighters. The bill establishes a mandate for local governments to offer these health services as a public health measure, recognizing occupational cancer risk in firefighting.

Why is this important

Firefighters face elevated exposure to carcinogens through smoke inhalation, contaminated gear, and hazardous materials at emergency scenes. This bill addresses occupational health disparities by providing screening access to volunteer firefighters who typically lack employer-sponsored health benefits compared to career firefighters. Early detection of cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Potential points of contention

  • County funding burden: Unfunded mandate requiring counties to absorb screening costs without state financial support, potentially straining local budgets already facing fiscal constraints
  • Scope limitations: Unclear whether "preventive screenings" covers all cancer types or specific screenings, and whether mental health screenings (firefighters face high suicide rates) are included
  • Implementation logistics: Questions about which screenings, screening frequency, which healthcare providers deliver services, and how coverage extends to part-time volunteers across multiple jurisdictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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