Senate Bill No. 439, introduced by Senator Boudreaux, amends R.S. 33:2581.4 to enhance cancer screening provisions for firefighters and fire service employees. The bill mandates that these employees receive both cancer and precancer screenings, with the initial cancer screening to occur no less than three years after employment begins. Subsequent screenings for precancer will be conducted every ten years starting from the first decade of employment. Additionally, effective January 1, 2027, precancer screenings specifically for esophageal cancer will be available to all firefighters and fire service employees, with the option to terminate screenings at age sixty.

The bill also ensures that retired firefighters and fire service employees receive cancer and precancer screenings according to the established schedule, with all associated costs covered by their employers or former employers, eliminating any out-of-pocket expenses. Participation in these screenings remains voluntary, and the provisions do not apply to those who have resigned or been terminated. The bill retains existing language regarding insurance coverage for screenings, ensuring that personal health insurance companies are not required to cover examinations conducted more frequently than recommended by established cancer organizations. The effective date for these changes is August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB439 Original: