WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander recognized a local firefighter from the U.S. House floor Wednesday while speaking in favor of legislation that could help first responders with occupational health impacts qualify for benefits.
Goodlander, D-N.H., told her legislative colleagues about Keene’s own Lt. Aaron Cooper, who died earlier this month from lung cancer, as well as the late Lt. Jessica Wyman of Nashua Fire and Rescue, who had the same cancer.
Lt. Cooper was a longtime firefighter known for his professionalism, courage and compassion, his peers told The Sentinel last week. He was also an advocate for the mental and physical health of firefighters. He was diagnosed with cancer in April 2023.
“These two brave heroes gave their lives to keep our communities safe. Their families and loved ones deserve to get the benefits that they have earned,” Goodlander said in a transcript of her statement to the House.
She is a co-sponsor of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, HR 1269, which was introduced in February. According to a news release from Goodlander’s office, the act aims to fill gaps in the current list of injuries and illnesses that qualify first responders for Public Safety Officer Benefits, a federal government program.
The current list includes things like traumatic injury, heart attack, stroke, COVID-19 and some mental health conditions, but does not include cancer.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has found that cancer is a leading cause of death among firefighters, with 9 percent more cancer diagnoses and 14 percent more cancer deaths compared to the general population.
Keene IAFF Local 3265 President Rob Skrocki said the act is something the union supports.
“We appreciate Congresswoman Goodlander’s continued support for firefighters and their families,” he said.
Firefighters’ health has been a focus of several state bills in New Hampshire in recent years, including a 2023 bill that designated cancer a “presumptive occupational disease” for firefighters. That designation makes it easier for firefighters diagnosed with cancer to access benefits, and a 2024 bill set aside $5 million to fund cancer screenings for firefighters.
