Bill > HB103

This bill modifies workers' compensation requirements for firefighters by adjusting the conditions under which they can receive disability benefits for certain diseases. The bill changes the existing law to reduce the required years of service from seven to six years before a firefighter can be presumed eligible for workers' compensation for specific health conditions. These conditions include respiratory diseases, cardiovascular events experienced within 72 hours of smoke or toxic substance exposure, and several types of cancer such as brain cancer, leukemia, and prostate cancer. The bill also modifies medical examination requirements, now mandating an initial medical exam upon first employment and subsequent exams at least every two years during the first six years of service. For cancer-related claims, firefighters must demonstrate exposure to a known carcinogen associated with the specific disabling cancer while on duty. Additionally, the presumption of eligibility extends for three calendar months per year of service, not to exceed 60 calendar months after the last date of employment. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, providing more accessible workers' compensation coverage for firefighters who develop certain diseases related to their occupation.

Business and Industry

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB103