The bill amends the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Retirement System laws to address line-of-duty deaths resulting from occupational cancer. It specifically expands the definition of "disease" to include cancer diagnosed while an active member was performing their duties. The bill outlines various types of cancer, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and cancers of specific organs, that are recognized under this provision. Additionally, it establishes criteria for determining if a cancer diagnosis is related to the member's line of duty, including exposure to known carcinogens.

Furthermore, the bill includes a provision for adjusting spouse annuities for those affected by cancer as defined in the new language, ensuring that the annuity reflects at least twenty-five years of credited service. It also clarifies the legislative intent for the act to have a retroactive effect for certain active members while explicitly stating that it does not require the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Retirement System to pay retroactive benefits. An emergency clause is included, establishing an effective date of July 1, 2025, to allow for proper implementation and communication of the new procedures.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1322 V2 - 2-26-2025 10:26 AM: 24-10-608(b)
Act 416: 24-10-608(b)