H.R. 931, Firefighter Cancer Registry Act

Floor Situation

On Tuesday, September 12, 2017, the House will consider H.R. 931, the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act, under suspension of the rules.  The bill was introduced on February 7, 2017, by Rep. Chris Collins (R-NY) and was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, which ordered the bill reported by voice vote on July 27, 2017.

Summary

H.R. 931 requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop and maintain a registry to collect data regarding the incidence of cancer in firefighters. This bill authorizes $10 million for fiscal years 2018-2022 to carry out those activities.

Background

Firefighters may experience detrimental health effects due to smoke inhalation and other harmful substances. A 2015 study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that firefighters in the U.S. have a greater number of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths.[1] H.R. 931 seeks to establish and improve collection activities to collect a greater abundance of data and assist in developing new protocols and safeguards to protect firefighters.

According to the bill’s sponsor, “This legislation has the potential to lead to methods that save the lives of the courageous men and women that keep our communities safe.”[2]

Cost

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates H.R. 931 would cost $10 million over the 2018-2022 period. However, the cost of the bill is offset by a reduction in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s facilities and capacities fund.  Thus, enacting the legislation would have no significant effect on the federal budget.

Staff Contact

For questions or further information please contact Dominique Yantko with the House Republican Policy Committee by email or at 3-1555.