Local leaders push for stronger firefighter protections, improved benefits, and operational support at the state level
Fire chiefs from across North Carolina gathered in Raleigh on May 20 for North Carolina Legislative Day, an annual event that unites the fire service in speaking with a unified voice to state lawmakers. The day provides a critical opportunity to highlight issues that directly affect firefighters and the communities they protect.
Brunswick County was strongly represented, with a committed group of fire chiefs making the nearly three‑hour trip to the capital. Throughout the day, chiefs met with legislators to discuss several key priorities currently moving through the General Assembly, including:
- Occupational cancer protections – Expanding coverage for firefighter occupational cancer
- Line of Duty Death benefits – Adding certain cancer‑related deaths to LODD eligibility
- Firefighters’ Pension Fund – Increasing the monthly benefit from $175 to $180
- Retirement requirements – Reducing the service requirement for full retirement from 30 years to 25 years
- Voting‑site support – Ensuring logistical and operational assistance when fire stations serve as polling places
Representatives Charlie Miller and Frank Iler met with the Brunswick County delegation, offering valuable time to discuss these issues and other matters affecting the fire service. Chiefs expressed appreciation for the opportunity to advocate directly for the needs of firefighters and the residents they serve.
Senator Bill Rabon, Chair of the Senate Rules and Operations Committee, was unavailable due to a demanding schedule.
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