Bill > A04729

This bill amends the Volunteer Firefighters' Benefit Law to create a legal presumption that Parkinson's disease causing disability or death in volunteer firefighters is considered work-related, provided certain conditions are met. Specifically, if a volunteer firefighter who passed a previous physical examination without any evidence of Parkinson's disease later develops the condition resulting in total or partial disability or death, the law will presume that the condition was caused by an accident in the line of duty, unless contrary evidence is presented. This presumption means the firefighter or their family would likely be eligible for benefits without having to prove the disease was directly caused by their firefighting work. The bill has a sunset provision, meaning these provisions will automatically expire on June 30, 2030, after which the law would revert to its previous state. The legislation aims to provide additional support and protection for volunteer firefighters who develop Parkinson's disease, acknowledging the potential health risks associated with their service.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4729