Bill > SB1712

This bill amends the Illinois Pension Code to expand occupational disease disability benefits for Chicago firefighters by explicitly including breast cancer as a qualifying condition for disability benefits. Under the bill, active firefighters who have completed at least 7 years of service and become unable to perform their duties due to breast cancer resulting from their service can receive an occupational disease disability benefit during periods when they are not receiving a salary. The benefit would be 65% of the firefighter's salary at the time of removal from the department payroll, with potential adjustments for long-term benefits. The bill also adds a provision to the State Mandates Act to clarify that the state is not required to reimburse local governments for implementing this change. The legislation recognizes the inherent risks firefighters face, including exposure to hazardous materials, extreme temperatures, and potential carcinogens, and aims to provide financial protection for firefighters who develop breast cancer as a result of their professional duties. The bill becomes effective immediately upon enactment.

Labor and Employment

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1712&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104