Bill > H4777

This bill amends the South Carolina Code of Laws to expand the definition of "firefighter" to include certain employees of the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) who are assigned to the Arson Unit. Specifically, the bill adds employees who perform arson investigation, fire-scene origin and cause determination, evidence collection, or related law-enforcement functions that routinely expose them to the same hazardous and carcinogenic environments encountered by traditional firefighters. The bill maintains the existing comprehensive definition of cancer, which includes malignant neoplasms across various body systems such as the nervous system, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and others. By expanding the definition of firefighter, the bill aims to ensure that SLED Arson Unit employees are eligible for the Firefighter Cancer Healthcare Benefit Plan, recognizing the similar occupational health risks they face compared to traditional firefighters. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4777&session=126&summary=B