MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – A retired firefighter battling for cancer coverage has to wait a few more months before finding out if he gets what he believes he deserves from his former employer.
Lieutenant Phillip “Phil” Shinn has been undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma and fighting for coverage since 2022. He’s filed a lawsuit against Marion County for denying benefits he believes he’s entitled to due to a state law.
The Professional Fire Fighters of Marion County (PFFMC) says his case has been set for a summary judgment hearing on September 10 at 3:00 p.m.
In 2019, the Legislature passed the Cancer Presumption Bill (SB426) which provides specific benefits to firefighters diagnosed with any of 21 cancers. Multiple myeloma is included in that list. The PFFMC says coverage extends during their career and up to 10 years after retirement. The legislation also shifted the burden of proof from the firefighter to the employer or insurer.
Shin retired in 2018 after working 30 years for Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR), both as a volunteer and a paid firefighter.
The PFFMC says the county believes that Shinn is not eligible for the coverage because he enrolled in Medicare insurance. The PFFMC says Shinn did that to avoid a 10% increase in premiums for every year he delayed.
In a statement from the Florida Professional Firefighters (FPF), the organization emphasized the significance of the Cancer Presumption Bill and the collective efforts to support firefighters like Shinn.
“The unanimous passage of SB426 was a milestone in recognizing the risks faced by our firefighters,” an FPF spokesperson said. “It is essential that we uphold the provisions of this bill to ensure our heroes receive the care they deserve.”
PFFMC represents 557 active and retired first responders.