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

This Assembly Resolution (K 40) requests Governor Hochul to issue a proclamation designating January 2025 as Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month in New York State, aligning with the national observance. It directly affects New York firefighters by raising public awareness about their elevated cancer risks - firefighters face a 9% higher cancer diagnosis rate and 14% higher cancer death rate than the general population due to exposure to hazardous chemicals during firefighting. The resolution emphasizes the need for better cancer prevention protocols, safer work practices, and support for firefighters, citing the National Firefighter Registry and occupational cancer as the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths. This symbolic action aims to increase visibility and encourage further legislative support, but it does not create new laws or funding.