Bill > HB128

This bill expands the list of health conditions that are presumed to be work-related for firefighters, meaning these conditions are automatically considered to have been caused by their job unless proven otherwise. Specifically, it now presumes that various types of cancer, including bladder, breast (if no genetic predisposition), brain, cervical, colon, colorectal, esophageal, kidney, leukemia, lung, malignant melanoma, mesothelioma, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, ovarian, prostate, skin, stomach, testicular, thyroid, and ureter cancers, are job-related if diagnosed after five years of employment. Previously, different cancers had different required employment periods, and some were not included. The bill also maintains presumptions for certain infectious diseases and post-traumatic stress disorder, and continues to presume heart injuries or strokes occurring under specific circumstances are work-related, provided the employer has a current physical training program and the firefighter undergoes regular medical screenings. These presumptions can be challenged in court if evidence shows the firefighter engaged in outside activities that significantly increased their risk of developing the condition. If a presumption is applied, employers must provide medical treatment as if it were a job-related injury, with provisions for reimbursement if a court later determines the presumption doesn't apply.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=128&year=26