Fire Captain Chuck Gossard dedicated his life to service at the Springfield Twp volunteer department. But that dedication was also a sacrifice.

In 2021, the third-generation firefighter was diagnosed with cancer, caused by exposure to toxic chemicals he faced on the job. The disease claimed his life after just five months.

Gossard is one of a growing number of firefighters whose lives are altered, or taken by occupational cancer and disease. In 2023, occupational cancer caused 72% of line-of-duty deaths among members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

That's why Dan Gossard, Chuck's son and a fourth-generation firefighter at the same station, has spent the past 3 years since his father's death lobbying for protections for families who may face a similar situation.

"It's definitely something that's a passion," Dan said. "After my father's passing, I want to live on his legacy for him and help out the other families that are out there that aren't as fortunate as we were, and in different communities as well."

House Resolution 1719, known as the 'Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act,' would officially recognize occupational cancer as a line-of duty death and extend federal death and disability benefits to those affected. It would also provide financial support to families of fallen firefighters, helping to cover expenses such as funeral costs, medical bills, and education benefits for their children.

Though the resolution was introduced to the US House of Representatives in 2023, it has become inactive after a change of the legislative session.

Dan Gossard added that in his time lobbying for the resolution, he has connected with other families who have lost a loved one to occupational cancer, which has strengthened his resolve to see that the legislation passes.

"What hit home to me is, fortunately I was in my 20s when my father passed, but it could be myself passing. And I have two young kids at home and I want to be able to have them taken care of," he tells 21 News.

When reached for comment, Congressman Mike Rulli said he would support the legislation if it was re-introduced to the floor. His statement in full reads:

"I was proud to co-sponsor H.R. 1719 in the 118th Congress alongside the late Representative Bill Pascrell. Our public safety officers put their lives on the line every day, and those battling exposure-related cancer deserve the benefits and recognition they've earned.

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2023 would have ensured that public safety officers with exposure-related cancer received death and disability benefits under the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program (PSOB). If the same bill is reintroduced in this Congress, I will fully support it again.

Reflecting on the Gossard family's story, I want to commend them once again for their dedication to public service. We owe it to our first responders and their families to stand by them, just as they have stood by us. I remain committed to advocating for policies that honor their sacrifice and provide them with the protections they deserve."

Senator Bernie Moreno also sent a statement to 21 News addressing the prospective for the resolution to reach the senate. It says:

"Our first responders put their lives on the line every single day to have our backs, it's only right that we have theirs when they sustain serious injuries or illnesses in the line of duty. I look forward to supporting this bill in the Senate and am committed to do everything I possibly can to support the men and women who keep us safe."