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Bill

Bill

HR 2244

Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act

119th Congress Introduced by Don Bacon and 2 co-sponsors

The Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act expands health benefits for military firefighters with service-related conditions, ensuring better support and safety standards.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
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Bill Summary · HR 2244

Summary of HR 2244: Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act

Purpose and Intent

The Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act (HR 2244) aims to enhance the benefits and protections for military firefighters who have been diagnosed with certain medical conditions related to their service. This legislation seeks to acknowledge the unique risks faced by military firefighters and ensure they receive appropriate support and recognition for their service-related health issues.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions designed to improve the welfare of military firefighters:

  • Health Benefits Expansion: The act proposes to expand eligibility for health benefits for military firefighters who develop specific medical conditions, including respiratory diseases and certain cancers, which are often linked to exposure to hazardous materials during firefighting operations.

  • Presumptive Conditions: It establishes a list of presumptive conditions that would automatically qualify military firefighters for benefits without the need for extensive documentation proving the connection to their service.

  • Support Services: The bill mandates the provision of additional support services, including mental health resources, to address the psychological impact of firefighting duties and related health issues.

  • Training and Safety Standards: It calls for the development of enhanced training and safety standards for military firefighters to minimize exposure to harmful substances during their service.

Who Would Be Affected

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be military firefighters currently serving or who have served in the armed forces. Additionally, veterans who have been diagnosed with the specified medical conditions would gain access to expanded health benefits and support services. The bill also indirectly impacts military families and healthcare providers involved in the care of these firefighters.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Introduced: March 21, 2025
  • Committee Referral: The bill was first referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs on the same day it was introduced.
  • Subcommittee Referral: On April 4, 2025, it was referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs for further consideration.

As of now, the bill is in the early stages of the legislative process, and further discussions and amendments may occur as it moves through the committee system.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by Don Bacon as the primary sponsor, with Jason Crow serving as a cosponsor. Their support highlights a bipartisan effort to address the needs of military firefighters.

This summary provides an overview of the Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on military firefighters and their families.

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

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