Senate committee advances SB 170 for enhanced firefighter cancer screenings in Nevada

A pivotal discussion on cancer screenings for first responders took center stage during the Nevada Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor meeting on March 10, 2025. Senate Bill 170, championed by Senator John Steinbeck, aims to enhance health screenings for firefighters and police officers, addressing a critical need in the face of rising cancer rates within these professions.

Senator Steinbeck, a long-time advocate for cancer awareness, emphasized the importance of early detection, stating, "After I did my cancer screening bills, I went back to the healthcare companies... early detection cost them way less money than if it goes on and on." This sentiment was echoed by various stakeholders, including representatives from the Nevada Professional Firefighters and the Nevada Advanced Practice Nurses Association, who highlighted the bill's potential to save lives and reduce long-term healthcare costs.

The committee discussed amendments to the bill, particularly addressing the physician shortage in rural areas. The proposed changes ensure that screenings are conducted by qualified professionals familiar with the unique health risks faced by first responders. "When possible, we will have a physician at that level," Steinbeck noted, acknowledging the challenges posed by limited medical resources.

Support for the bill was robust, with testimonies from firefighters and healthcare professionals underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive screenings. Todd Inglesby, president of the Professional Firefighters in Nevada, pointed out that cancer is the leading cause of death in the fire service, urging the committee to back the legislation to protect those who serve the community.

As the meeting progressed, the committee opened the floor for public testimony, with many expressing gratitude for the proposed legislation. The Nevada Cancer Coalition and the Nevada State Fire Chiefs Association also voiced their support, reinforcing the bill's significance in promoting health and safety for first responders.

The committee's discussions signal a critical step toward improving health outcomes for firefighters and police officers in Nevada, with the potential for Senate Bill 170 to set a precedent for similar initiatives nationwide. As the legislative process continues, the focus remains on ensuring that those who risk their lives for public safety receive the comprehensive healthcare they deserve.