International Association of Fire Fighters
Coverage of International Association of Fire Fighters in the Nexus archive.
- Virginia to fund cancer screening program for firefighters
Virginia’s new budget allocates $2 million annually for cancer screenings for firefighters, addressing their heightened risk due to exposure to carcinogens. The initiative, supported by Governor Abigail Spanberger and lawmakers, aims to detect cancer early through grants for localities. Firefighters face risks from chemicals in gear and smoke, with some filing lawsuits over PFAS exposure linked to health issues.
- Virginia inches closer to allowing single-stairwell multi-unit buildings
Virginia is advancing a proposal to allow single stairwells in four-story multi-unit buildings to address housing shortages. The proposal, led by Sen. Schuyler VanValkenburg, aims to increase housing density on smaller lots, supported by builders but opposed by firefighters over safety concerns. Studies from cities like New York and Seattle suggest such buildings can be safe with specific fire safety measures.