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A ONE WAY STREET Guest Editorial I have just finished reading a 'Legislative Alert' published by the California Law Enforcement Association, A Non-Profit Mutual Benefit Association, pertaining to Labor Code ss3212.l (Amended). “On October 6, the Governor of California signed AB 539 (Papan Bill) into law. This Bill removes the requirement that a firefighter or peace officer prove a reasonable link between a carcinogen and a disabling cancer before the cancer is presumed compensable under the workers compensation system.” “This Bill changes (amends) Labor Code ss3212.1 'Cancer presumption; active firefighters and peace officers'. It only affects those firefighters and peace officers that are appointed under Penal Code ss 830.1 and 830.2(a).” Civilian Evidence Handlers are excluded, by design. If the fire and law enforcement unions and associations were to include us it would broaden the scope to the point that there would be great opposition from large employers, which would result in denial. Who can blame them. It's too bad that evidence handlers and processors don't have an association that pursues changes in the law that would benefit the people who are most likely to be exposed to these carcinogens. What we (evidence handlers) have are professional associations whose only purpose seems to be that of improving on our abilities to perform our jobs better in order to further the identification and prosecution of law breakers. Law Enforcement Associations' only purpose for existence is the protection, pay, and benefits of their members. IAI, CSDIAI, SCAFO, The Fingerprint Societies, AFIS Internet, are all oriented toward excellence in knowledge and performance of their duties. What's wrong with this picture? I am in possession of the NEW LIST OF KNOWN CARCINOGENS (and “target organs”). If anyone is interested give me a call or e-mail and I'll mail a copy.
Tom Jones
This article was printed in “THE PRINT” |