This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding workers' compensation eligibility for firefighters. Under the new provisions, the term "firefighter" will be explicitly defined to include state firefighters, members of city or town fire departments, members of fire district fire departments, and members of fire authorities. This definition will clarify who qualifies for workers' compensation benefits if injured or killed while traveling directly to or from work, ensuring that these individuals are recognized as being in the course and scope of their employment for compensation purposes, provided they are not engaged in criminal activity.

Additionally, the bill makes several technical changes to the existing language. It replaces the term "fire fighter" with "firefighter" throughout the statute and modifies the phrasing to clarify that the section does not create liability for employers regarding civil damages resulting from a firefighter's negligent or intentional conduct while commuting. Overall, these updates aim to enhance clarity and ensure that the rights of firefighters concerning workers' compensation are well-defined and protected.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-1021.01
House Engrossed Version: 23-1021.01