Bill > HB1602

This bill requires counties in Maryland where volunteer fire companies are located to offer free preventive cancer screenings to both active volunteer firefighters and retired volunteer firefighters who meet specific service criteria, such as a minimum of three years of service and participation in a length of service award program or equivalent point system. The screenings must follow the latest guidelines from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), a professional organization for firefighters. To facilitate this, volunteer fire companies must maintain and provide updated lists of their active and retired volunteer firefighters to the county annually and upon request. Counties can fulfill this requirement by either providing a free annual examination that includes these cancer screenings or by applying for grants to fund advanced cancer detection technologies, such as multi-cancer early detection blood tests. The bill defines a "retired volunteer firefighter" as someone who previously volunteered, was actively involved in fire suppression, and has met the minimum service and point requirements. This legislation aims to ensure that those who serve their communities as volunteer firefighters, both currently and in retirement, have access to crucial preventive healthcare.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1602?ys=2026RS