The bill amends the Worker's Disability Compensation Act of 1969 to expand the definition of "personal injury" for certain first responders, including full-time, part-time, or paid on-call members of fire and public safety departments, as well as county sheriffs and state police officers. It specifically includes respiratory and heart diseases that develop during active service and are a result of their duties. The bill also establishes the Christopher R. Slezak first responder presumed coverage fund, which provides benefits for specific cancers diagnosed after January 1, 2022, for eligible members who have served at least 60 months and were exposed to hazards related to their work.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for applying for benefits from the fund, including the requirement for claimants to first apply for any pension benefits. It specifies that if a member is eligible for pension benefits, they can still receive medical expense benefits under the act. The fund will be managed by the state treasurer, who will oversee its investments and ensure claims are paid in a timely manner. The bill mandates annual reporting on claims and anticipated costs to ensure transparency and accountability in the fund's operations.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 418.405