11/21/2019

**Photo Release** CFO Jimmy Patronis: We Must Continue to Help Firefighters Fight Cancer

SPRING HILL, Fla. - Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis was joined by Representative Blaise Ingoglia at Fire Station 3 in Hernando County today to promote the establishment of a firefighter cancer-fighting program to help local agencies get access to the equipment needed to decontaminate gear and highlight firefighter cancer coverage legislation passed earlier this year.   CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “With the help of Chair Ingoglia, we were successful in passing vital cancer coverage legislation to aid our brave firefighters in their battle against this deadly disease. Moving forward, it's my top priority to advocate for a culture of safety within our fire service community to combat the high cancer rates within this profession and further protect these heroes.   "I’m also pleased to see Governor DeSantis’ new budget included my recommendations for funding of our new Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Equipment Grant Program. These brave men and women deserve our continued support and the resources needed to protect themselves as they selflessly serve to protect us every day.”

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