After he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, Casper Fire Captain Jeff Atkinson wanted to spend his free time creating lasting memories with his two boys — he didn’t want to waste precious hours filling out paperwork or arguing his claim for worker’s compensation. The captain filed for workers’ compensation after he became sick, his wife said, but he was denied.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Casper Star-Tribune

A city resident, who was rejected as a firefighter because he has high blood pressure, has filed a $500,000 federal discrimination lawsuit against the city. Antonio Dias, 30, claims that although the city’s own doctor said he can perform the duties of a firefighter as long as he takes medication for his high blood pressure the city’s personnel director refused to clear Dias.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Connecticut Post

Boise Fire Chief Dennis Doan said he is outraged after the House State Affairs Committee voted, 6-9, on Monday not to move forward with legislation that would close a fireworks loophole in Idaho. Meridian Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer also echoed Doan’s concerns in a statement released Monday afternoon, and Nampa Fire Chief Phil Roberts has also stated in the past he is among those in favor of banning the sale of aerial fireworks.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Idaho Press-Tribune

McLennan County’s state representatives have expressed support for a bill that would allow first responders with a state License to Carry a Handgun to carry while responding to emergencies, but local officials have differing views. Waco Fire Chief Bobby Tatum, said he’s adamantly opposed to firefighters caring guns on duty.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Waco Tribune

Fire chiefs and firefighters on Monday urged Gov. Scott Walker to require new homes to have more devices to prevent fires, saying a new electrical code being considered by his administration doesn't go far enough. "This is a reckless disregard for safety," said Wauwatosa Fire Chief Rob Ugaste, president of the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association.
- PUB DATE: 2/14/2017 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Stevens Point Journal