This bill amends existing laws related to workers' compensation coverage for firefighters in Alaska, specifically addressing disability claims arising from certain diseases. It establishes a presumption that claims for respiratory diseases, cardiovascular events occurring within 72 hours of exposure to harmful substances, and specific cancers (including primary brain cancer, malignant melanoma, leukemia, and others) are covered under workers' compensation. The bill extends the presumption period for claims from three to six calendar months for each year of service, up to a maximum of 120 months after employment ends. Additionally, it requires that firefighters have undergone a qualifying medical examination upon first employment and at least once every two years during their first six years of service, demonstrating no evidence of the disease.

Furthermore, the bill increases the monthly occupational disability benefit from 40% to 75% of the disabled employee's gross monthly compensation at the time of termination. It also allows disabled employees eligible for disability benefits to access retiree major medical insurance without premium payments if they are not eligible for Medicare. The bill includes provisions for employer contributions to the employee's individual account while they are receiving disability benefits, ensuring that employees are fully vested in their contributions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
HB0210A, AM HB 210, introduced 04/30/2025: 39.35.410, 39.35.890
HB0210B, AM CSHB 210(FIN), introduced 04/30/2026: 39.35.410, 39.35.870, 39.35.890, 39.35.880, 39.35.891
HB0210C, AM CSHB 210(FIN) am, introduced 05/06/2026: 23.30.121, 23.30.243, 23.30.100, 39.35.410, 39.35.870, 39.35.890, 39.35.880, 39.35.891