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 considered accidental and incurred 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 presumption of duty-related illness may not apply.

Additionally, the bill allows for the negotiation of life and disability insurance policies that include accidental death benefits, reinforcing the presumption of duty-related health conditions. It specifies that firefighters and officers requiring treatment for these conditions may choose a medical specialist, with the requirement for timely authorization from their workers' compensation carrier. The bill aims to ensure that first responders receive appropriate medical care and benefits related to their service-related health issues, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 269 Filed: 112.18