A bill that would help support local firefighters who suffer from occupational cancer passes the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

The bill known as the Fighting Chance For Firefighters Act would provide access to the state's health care benefits under the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Plans for local firefighters. Cancer is the leading cause of death for active-duty firefighters mainly due to the exposure they experience to various chemicals, including those found in smoke, firefighting foam, diesel exhaust, and other building materials. These carcinogens, along with substances like formaldehyde, cigarette smoke, and asbestos, have been linked to a higher risk of cancer among firefighters.

The Fighting Chance For Firefighters Act now moves on to the Oklahoma Senate for consideration.