Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim January 2025, as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon

Urges Governor Hochul to proclaim January 2025 as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in New York to raise awareness and promote prevention, with no legal mandates.

ADOPTED

Bill at a Glance

Bill Number: K 40

Title: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim January 2025, as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in the State of New York

Type: Resolution (memorializing request to the Governor)

Sponsor: Marianne Buttenschon (primary)

Status: ADOPTED

Introduced: January 21, 2025

Key Action Dates:

2025-01-21: REFERRED TO CALENDAR (twice)
2025-01-22: ADOPTED (twice)

Purpose and Intent

This bill is a ceremonial or memorial resolution that requests and memorializes the Governor to issue a proclamation designating January 2025 as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in New York State. The primary aim is to publicly acknowledge and promote awareness of cancer risks among firefighters and to encourage preventive measures, screening, and wellness practices within fire departments and related agencies.

What the Measure Would Do

Formal Request to Governor: The resolution asks Governor Kathy Hochul to issue a proclamation declaring January 2025 as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in New York.

Recognition of Firefighter Health Risks: It highlights the recognition of elevated cancer risks faced by firefighters and the importance of prevention, early detection, and protective measures.

Ceremonial Observance: If proclaimed, state and local governments, agencies, and fire departments may publicly observe or acknowledge the month, aligning with awareness campaigns and related activities.

Important note: As a memorializing resolution, the measure does not create new laws, mandate programs, or authorize spending. It is a ceremonial act signaling state support for the issue and encouraging awareness and recognition.

Who Would Be Affected

Firefighters and Fire Departments: Benefit from heightened awareness of cancer risks and potential alignment with prevention and wellness initiatives.

State and Local Agencies: May participate in or promote observance of Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month.

General Public: Gains visibility into firefighter health concerns and prevention efforts.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction: January 21, 2025.

Legislative Action: Referred to calendar on January 21; adopted on January 22, 2025.

Status: With adoption, the Legislature has formally memorialized the Governor to issue the proclamation. The actual proclamation would be issued by the Governor, not by the Legislature, and would designate January 2025 as the month in question.

Background and Context (Contextual)

Firefighter cancer prevention has been a focus in various jurisdictions due to elevated exposure to carcinogens in firefighting environments. Proclamations and awareness months are commonly used to highlight health risks, promote protective equipment and practices, and encourage screening and wellness programs within fire service communities.

Bottom Line

K 40 is a ceremonial resolution that, upon adoption, respectfully urges Governor Hochul to proclaim January 2025 as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in New York. It reflects the Legislature’s support for firefighter health and cancer prevention without creating mandates or financial obligations.

Bill