The Health and Safety Bill for firefighters has passed out of a Montana House committee.
On Wednesday, the Business and Labor Committee passed the bill with a 19-0 vote.
The bill was first introduced by Senator Nate McConnell of District 48 in January.
The Health and Safety Bill will provide coverage to firefighters who develop illnesses related to their job.
Firefighters have worked for almost two decades to pass a law that will protect them from on-the-job illness, such as cancer and communicable diseases.
Firefighters hope the 66th Montana Legislature will help them join 47 other states who currently have protection in place for their firefighters.
The bill has already passed the Senate and is now headed to the House floor.
There is no date set for when the first reading will take place.
-Reported by Margaret DeMarco/MTN News
