WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 393

Firefighters Cancer Screening Grant Program and Fund; established.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew and 8 co-sponsors

HB 393 creates a cancer screening grant program and dedicated fund to provide Virginia firefighters with access to occupational health screening services.

Referred to Committee on Finance and Appropriations
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 393

Legislative bill overview

HB 393 establishes a cancer screening grant program and dedicated fund specifically for Virginia firefighters. The bill creates a mechanism to provide financial support for cancer screening services, recognizing that firefighters face elevated occupational cancer risks from exposure to carcinogens during their work.

Why is this important

Firefighters have well-documented higher rates of certain cancers compared to the general population due to occupational exposures. Early detection through screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. This program addresses a public health gap for a workforce that faces unique occupational health hazards while performing essential services.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and sustainability: The bill establishes a dedicated fund but the fiscal impact statement should clarify where initial and ongoing appropriations originate and whether they compete with other state priorities
  • Program scope limitations: Questions may arise about which cancers are covered, screening frequency, eligibility criteria (volunteer vs. career firefighters), and whether coverage extends to retired firefighters
  • Cost projections: The actual expense of providing comprehensive cancer screening to Virginia's firefighter population could exceed initial estimates, raising concerns about long-term fiscal responsibility

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

Sign in to ask a question.