Kentuckiana Times

U.S. Representatives Erin Houchin (IN-09), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Nick LaLota (NY-01) have introduced the bipartisan Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act of 2025. The proposed legislation aims to provide medical coverage and additional support for fire fighters who develop symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Currently, the federal government does not officially recognize the link between fire fighting and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. As a result, fire fighters with Parkinson’s often face bureaucratic obstacles when seeking care. The new bill seeks to formally acknowledge Parkinson’s as a job-related illness for fire fighters, making it easier for them to access necessary medical care.

“Our fire fighters put their lives on the line every day, facing extreme risks most of us will never fully understand. The science is clear—chemical exposure and head trauma from fire fighting significantly increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act ensures these heroes aren’t left to fight this battle alone. This bill is about honoring their service with the care and support they’ve earned,” Rep Houchin said.

“Fire fighters are exposed to significantly more toxins than the civilian population. They put their lives on the line to protect and serve our communities. It is our responsibility to ensure that the medical issues that disproportionately arise as a result of their service are covered. Fire fighters shouldn’t have to fight to prove the link between their service and Parkinson’s disorders, given the data. This is the least we can do to those who dedicated their lives to protecting and serving us,” Rep. Hoyle said.

"The risks fire fighters face don’t end when the fire is out, and the science is clear: repeated exposure to toxic chemicals on the job significantly increases their risk of developing Parkinson’s. That’s why I support federal legislation to establish a presumptive link. Our fire fighters deserve more than praise—they deserve care, support, and the full backing of the country they serve," said Rep. LaLota.

Edward Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), stated: “The research is clear: fire fighters face an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease due to frequent, repeated exposure to toxins on the job. That’s why the Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act is so important. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure fire fighters have access to the care and support needed following a Parkinson’s diagnosis.” He added that “the IAFF is proud to endorse this bill, and we’re grateful to Reps. Hoyle and Houchin for their leadership on this critical issue.”

Randy Erwin, National President of NFFE, commented: “The sacrifices made by federal firefighters extend far beyond the immediate risks of responding to fires and other emergencies... Many suffer from job-related injuries and illnesses, including Parkinson’s, long after their federal service ends.” He added that “NFFE is proud to endorse the Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act” in order “to ensure these brave men and women receive the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve should they be diagnosed with Parkinson’s.”

The bill has additional cosponsors including U.S. Representatives Carbajal (CA-24) and Neguse (CO-02). It has received support from six organizations: International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), American Parkinson Disease Association, Davis Phiney Foundation for Parkinson’s Power Over Parkinson’s, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and Power Over Parkinson’s.

Erin Houchin has represented Indiana's 9th district in Congress since 2023 after succeeding Trey Hollingsworth [source]. Before her election to Congress, she served in the Indiana Senate from 2014 until 2022 [source]. Born in Salem in 1976, Houchin currently resides there [source], having graduated from Indiana University Bloomington with a BS degree.

The full text of the bill can be found here.