Firefighter Cancer & Cardiac Benefit Reimbursement Program FAQ

Q: What is the Firefighter Cancer & Cardiac Benefit Reimbursement Program? 

A: A reimbursement program offered through the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) for full-time, part-time, and volunteer firefighters to provide financial support for meeting the requirements of HB24-1219. For more information, visit our webpage here.

Q: How do I begin an application for reimbursement? 

A: DOLA has moved the program to the Formulaic Portal. All new applications and supporting documentation must now be submitted through that portal, using the same login credentials previously used for the Grants Portal. For more information on how to apply, visit DOLA’s website, or contact either Alacia Isom at alacia.isom@state.co.us or Chris Ockwig at chris.ockwig@state.co.us. 

Q: When does the second application period open and close? 

A: The second application period is anticipated to open January 1, 2027, subject to funding availability. 

Q: What documents does DOLA require for the application? 
  1. Copy of the Pool Liability Repayment Plan (new requirement) 
  2. Cancer Invoice (memorandum does not include departments that are a part of the pool) 
  3. Heart invoice 
  4. Proof of payment 
Q: Do I need to submit two separate applications for the Heart and Cancer Programs? 

A: No. Employers only need to submit one application for both the Heart and Cancer Benefit Programs. This also means you will only need to submit one total application per department. 

Q: What happens if my department has mixed staffing (full-time, part-time, volunteer) and I submit during the first application period? Will I receive partial reimbursement? Does this require a second application? 

A: Employers with mixed staffing will receive reimbursement. There is no need to submit a second application. 

Q: How is funding allocated between the first and second application periods? Is this percentage pre-determined? Does it change annually? 

A: Funding proportions are not fixed and may be adjusted in future cycles. DOLA will make adjustments as they evaluate what works best.

Q: If first-period funding runs out, will part-time and volunteer employees still be prioritized in the second period? 

A: The first application period is designated for volunteer and part-time employees. If all available funds are exhausted during the first period, there would be no remaining funds for a second application period. Departments requesting reimbursement for full-time employees will receive reimbursement at a prorated amount based on the funding remaining after the volunteer and part-time reimbursement request has been fulfilled.

Q: Who should I contact for procedural or troubleshooting issues? 

A: For assistance with application procedures or troubleshooting, please contact Alacia Isom at alacia.isom@state.co.us or Chris Ockwig at chris.ockwig@state.co.us.

Q: Can application periods be extended or adjusted due to approval delays? 

A: Yes. For example, if an application cannot be approved due to processing delays, the application period can be reopened for a specified period to allow applicants additional time to complete their submissions.

Q: What happens if I can’t complete my application within the period because I'm waiting for assistance? 

A: DOLA will work with any department experiencing issues, provided they begin their application within the designated timeframe. Delays related to support or troubleshooting will not prevent completion.

Q: How are revised invoices or updated coverage handled? Can DOLA revise an application? 

A: DOLA cannot revise applications once submitted. If any invoice or coverage information is updated, the application will be rejected, and the applicant will need to resubmit their application with the corrected documentation.

Q: How often will allocation/remaining funds data on DOLA’s website be updated? 

A: The DOLA website will be updated each time funds are drawn down so that departments can see the most current information. If you have questions about remaining funding or need clarification, contact Alacia Isom at alacia.isom@state.co.us.

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