Firefighters Workers Comp Bill Fails to Advance at Legislature

After three more hours of debate today, LB400 failed to get the necessary cloture votes. 

The intent of LB400 is to provide for compensation under the Nebraska Workers' Compensation Act for cancers experienced by firefighters. Cancer that results in either temporary or permanent disability or death is now an occupational disease and is compensable as such. This applies to firefighters who were exposed to carcinogens or reasonably know human carcinogens during the course of their employment or service.

Senator Dave Wordekemper of Fremont, a former firefighter himself, brought the bill. 

Senator Mike Jacobson of North Platte led the opposition, claiming it would drastically increase insurance costs for government entities. He made several motions as part of the debate.

Senator Stan Clouse of Kearney spoke several times on the measure as he weighed his options. He ended up voting against cloture.