Ways and Means on November 10, 2026

Boston City Council Committee on Ways and Means hearing, November 10, 2026, on Docket 1917, examined city funding for health screenings and wellness support for police, fire, and EMS personnel. Department and union representatives described existing benefits and programs, while emphasizing gaps in specialized occupational cancer and cardiac screenings and the reliance on grants, private donations, and union fundraising. The Fire Department reported screening about 870 members with grant and Dana-Farber support; figures discussed included a $150,000 screening expansion, a prior round of about $420,000 for 400 members (roughly $1,100 per screening), and a police screening estimate of about $500,000 annually for a rotating program. A $1.6 million federal grant was cited as having supported programs over several years, but witnesses did not know why it was not renewed.

Councilors urged sustained city funding and more consistent support across the three services. The administration’s labor-policy representative said the city could cost out a proposed program and provide information in writing, but made no funding commitment; councilors also requested information on the grant denial. Firefighters raised procurement of PFAS-free protective gear: a Massachusetts restriction taking effect January 1, 2027 bars purchase of new PPE containing PFAS, and witnesses estimated the department needs roughly 3,000–3,200 sets. The department was reportedly pursuing PFAS-free gear, though questions remained about inventory already purchased and replacement costs. No motions or votes were recorded.