The bill amends Section 112.18 of the Florida Statutes to enhance disability provisions for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and correctional officers. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "correctional officer," "fire service provider," "heart disease," and "medical specialist," which clarify the scope of the law. The bill establishes a presumption that any health condition related to tuberculosis, heart disease, or hypertension resulting in disability or death is accidental and occurred in the line of duty, provided the individual passed a physical examination upon entering service. It also outlines the requirements for maintaining medical examination records and the conditions under which a claim for benefits must be made.

Additionally, the bill allows for independent medical examinations in disputes regarding treatment and clarifies the process for accessing medical specialists for compensable conditions. It specifies that governmental entities can negotiate insurance policies that include accidental death benefits, reinforcing the presumption of duty-related health impairments. The effective date for the bill is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 269 Filed: 112.18