Bill > S07534

This bill provides a performance of duty presumption for paid firefighters in New York City (a city with a population of one million or more) who are diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Specifically, the bill establishes that if a current or recently retired (within five years) firefighter who passed a physical examination upon entry into service is diagnosed with ALS resulting in partial or total disability or death, it will be presumed that the condition was acquired in the line of duty unless contrary evidence is provided. The legislation requires the New York City Fire Department Pension Fund's board of trustees to implement administrative actions to support this presumption, which means affected firefighters or their families would likely be eligible for enhanced disability or death benefits. Under the proposed change, eligible members could receive performance of duty disability benefits equal to 75% of their final average salary, and in case of death, a lifetime benefit of 50% of the member's wages from their last year of service, potentially with additional special accidental death benefits. The bill is designed to provide additional support and financial protection for firefighters who develop this serious neurological condition.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7534