Senate approves study on cancer incidence in female firefighters

The Texas Senate on a voice and roll-call sequence approved House Bill 1639, which directs a study into whether female firefighters in the state face higher rates of certain cancers.

Senator Alvarado, who brought the bill to the floor, said existing research on firefighter cancer has focused largely on male firefighters and that HB1639 would “initiate a study on the rates of cancers among female firefighters in Texas.” Supporters argued the study is needed to ensure protections and detection efforts account for women in the profession.

The Senate suspended rules to consider the measure and advanced it through second and third readings. Senators voted to suspend the constitutional three-day posting rule, and final passage was recorded at 29 ayes and 2 nays. Senate remarks emphasized the occupational risk firefighters face and the bill’s narrow purpose: commissioning a study, not adopting new mandates.

If enacted, the study would be administered by the designated agency and aim to gather data on incidence and potential occupational exposures specific to female firefighters, with any policy responses to follow from the findings. The measure now proceeds toward enrollment and possible signature by the governor.