Pennsylvania Senate backs bill barring copays for firefighter cancer screenings

Pennsylvania firefighters and lawmakers have pressed for legislation providing career and volunteer firefighters with regular cancer screenings at no out-of-pocket cost, arguing that early detection could save lives. Advocates cite firefighters’ exposure to toxic chemicals, including substances associated with protective gear and smoke from burning synthetic materials, and research indicating elevated cancer risks. The House passed one version of the measure, and the Senate later approved a separate version that would bar copayments, deductibles, coinsurance and other costs; that version now returns to the House for consideration.