Houchin Joins Bipartisan Effort to Get Fire Fighters with Parkinson’s the Care They Need

Monday, August 4, 2025 at 11:32 AM

By Travis Thayer @eagle993

Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act of 2025 was recently introduced.

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

Despite clear evidence linking fire fighting to an increased risk for developing Parkinson’s, the federal government has yet to officially recognize the connection. As a result, fire fighters living with Parkinson’s face needless bureaucratic barriers when seeking the care they need. This bill would change that by formally recognizing Parkison’s as a job-related illness for fire fighters to access the care they have earned and deserve.

“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.

The bill is also supported by six organizations including the: 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.