Bill > LB400

This bill expands workers' compensation coverage for firefighters diagnosed with specific types of cancer by creating a rebuttable presumption that certain cancers are work-related. The bill defines both professional and volunteer firefighters as those who have served for at least five years, and establishes a comprehensive list of carcinogens associated with over 20 different types of cancer, including bladder, brain, breast, and lung cancer. Under the proposed legislation, if a firefighter develops cancer and can demonstrate exposure to specific known carcinogens during their employment, they may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. The bill provides different presumption periods for cancer diagnosis depending on the firefighter's years of service: for those retiring before 2026, there's a sliding window of up to 60 months after retirement, while for those retiring on or after 2026, the presumption applies either for a period equal to years worked (if less than 20 years of service) or for life (if 20 or more years of service). Importantly, the bill emphasizes that the list of carcinogens is not exhaustive, and firefighters can still prove work-related cancer on a case-by-case basis. The legislation aims to provide additional support and recognition of the occupational health risks faced by firefighters.