Michigan Votes Forum

 Senator Garcia,

Please answer a simple question.  Why would you not include in this bill coverage of all firefighters?  If you did your research you will find that all firefighters in this state are regulated by the same standards, the same Firefighter Training Council requirements, and the same MIOSHA laws and standards.  If you would have done your research on fire departments in this state, of which there are over 1000, you would have learned that over 70% are part paid, paid on call, or all volunteer.  My next question to you is this, when a fire department responds to a fire that spewing carcinogens, does it know that it is exposing these cancer causing chemicals to a career firefighter or one that is not career?  Of course the answer is no.  You need to relook at your bill and include all firefighters in this state, not just career firefighters.  I will finish by stating this, if you do not include all firefighters in your bill, I will make it my mission to have this bill squashed and have the backing of thousands of firefighters behind me.

Chief Dennis Fouchia

Lenox Twp. Fire Department

Chief Dennis – I agree with your call for extending this bill to cover all Michigan firefighters.  The simple facts of the matter that you cite make your case quite persuasively, in my view.

I don’t think, however, that an abrasive tone and outright threats is the way to get members of the Legislature on your side, at least right out of the gate.  Much as I support your cause, I also find (sadly) the general tone of your post is a turnoff.  That stuff might be useful as a last resort but it seems out of place as a opening shot.

 well said, chief.

Wow, that's quite a mouthful crazy.

Care to elaborate on that profound statement. I mean, like say something about the proposed legislation or something.

 nah... the chief pretty much said it all.

i mean if a legislator can't show equal treatment under the law......