Read the full stored bill text
ONE HUNDRED NINTH LEGISLATURE
SECOND SESSION
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION 307
Introduced by Wordekemper, 15.
WHEREAS, January has been designated as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month
to provide firefighters with necessary tools and guidance to develop life-
saving protocols for cancer prevention and to support those with cancer
diagnoses; and
WHEREAS, firefighter occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-
duty death in the fire service; and
WHEREAS, firefighters are exposed to hundreds of different chemical
substances in the form of gases, vapors, and particulates during firefighting
operations, including known and suspected carcinogens such as benzene,
formaldehyde, and asbestos; and
WHEREAS, firefighters come into contact with hazardous substances through
inhalation, skin absorption, eye contact, or ingestion during fire response and
training activities; and
WHEREAS, contaminated turnout gear and personal protective equipment can
continue to expose firefighters to carcinogens at fire stations and in
emergency vehicles even if properly cleaned and stored; and
WHEREAS, education and training on safe work practices, proper use and
maintenance of personal protective equipment, cancer screening, early
detection, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential to reducing occupational
cancer risk among firefighters; and
WHEREAS, with proper prevention strategies, early detection, and support
systems, firefighters can reduce their cancer risk and maintain long and
healthy careers; and
WHEREAS, the observation of Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month in January
2026 provides the opportunity to share experiences and information and raise
LR307
2026
LR307
2026
-1-
public awareness about occupational cancer in the fire service.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE ONE HUNDRED NINTH
LEGISLATURE OF NEBRASKA, SECOND SESSION:
1. That the Legislature recognizes the month of January 2026 as
Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month in Nebraska.
2. That the Legislature expresses its support for all firefighters
diagnosed with occupational cancer and recognizes the families and support
systems of those diagnosed for the irreplaceable care they give.
3. That the Legislature honors the service and sacrifice of Nebraska's
firefighters and encourages fire departments, emergency services organizations,
and communities across Nebraska to promote awareness of firefighter cancer
risks and prevention strategies.
LR307
2026
LR307
2026
-2-