The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Michelle Cook recognized as Co-Legislator of the Year
TORRINGTON >> The city’s local state representative has been recognized as the 2016 Co-Legislator of the Year by the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Connecticut.
The award recognizes state Rep. Michelle Cook’s efforts and dedication in fighting for legislation that provides all of Connecticut’s firefighters with coverage in the event that they are diagnosed with cancer, according to a release.
“Not only am I deeply honored to receive this award, but I am also very grateful to receive it from an association that plays a vital role in Connecticut every single day,” Cook said in the release. “It has always been important for me to help our firefighters, as they are the ones that risk their lives for us in the line of duty. They sacrifice themselves for our family, friends and neighbors, and I was proud to be fighting for them this session. I appreciate all the work firefighters do for our communities and I am proud that with this legislation, they will finally be getting the care they deserve.”
Throughout the legislative session, Cook championed An Act Concerning Workers Compensation Coverage for Current and Former Uniformed Members of Paid or Volunteer Firefighters, which establishes a relief fund used for wage replacement of those who are diagnosed with certain conditions of cancer as a result of their service as paid municipal or volunteer firefighters.
In addition to providing wage benefits, this bill also requires firefighters to take preventative measures to avoid contracting cancer. Eligibility for the relief fund requires firefighters to maintain a healthy lifestyle and undergo regular pre-screening for cancer.
Cook is expected to receive the award on Sept. 6 at the Austrian Donau Club, 545 Arch Street, New Britain.