Federal wildfire fighters, finally able to get health insurance. (Reuters)
Here's one executive action even Republicans aren't bitching about. The White House has announced that, as of today, federal wildfire fighters will have access to health insurance on the federal employees plan. They've been unable to access the federal employees' plan because they are classified as seasonal or temporary, and haven't been eligible. So many have taken on this dangerous and critical job
with no coverage.
Here's the president's statement on changing that:
Starting today, the brave men and women of our nation's federal firefighting forces, as well as their families, will have access to the health coverage they deserve. Their heroism in battling the deadly fires that have impacted states across the country this summer inspires us all. Each day, these Americans put themselves in grave danger to save the lives of people they never met, which is why I directed my administration to ensure that our nation’s firefighters can count on the care and protection they need.
Join us in thanking President Obama for his swift action in helping the firefighters.