Rodriguez Bill to Streamline Access to Benefits for Firefighters Clears Committee

Legislation would help cut through the red tape standing between firefighters and the benefits they’ve earned

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, that would better support Colorado’s firefighters by streamlining access to critical health care benefits cleared the Senate Local Government & Housing Committee today.

Employers of firefighters, like local governments and special districts, are required to provide health care coverage for heart and circulatory conditions related to elevated risks firefighters are exposed to throughout the course of their jobs. Right now, employers can fulfill this obligation through self insurance, accident insurance, or by participating in a multiple employer trust. SB24-089 would instead require that all employers of firefighters participate in a trust.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our families and our communities safe, and they deserve the best possible care when they experience medical issues related to their dangerous and demanding jobs,” Rodriguez said. “This bill will help cut through the red tape standing between firefighters and the benefits they’ve earned, and ensure firefighters can focus on themselves and their recovery instead of fighting to get a claim approved.”

Participating in the trust instead of through self insurance will make it easier and more likely for firefighters to have their claims approved.

SB24-089 will now move to consideration before the full Senate. Track the bill’s progress HERE.