This bill amends the existing workers' compensation laws to extend the presumption that heart or lung diseases are occupationally related for firefighters, unless there is clear and convincing evidence to the contrary. Specifically, it establishes a prima facie presumption for cancer diseases in firefighters, which includes regular, call, volunteer, or retired members of fire departments. The bill stipulates that if a firefighter has been employed for at least ten years and has undergone a medical examination as per the National Fire Protection Association standard, they will be presumed to have an occupationally caused cancer unless the employer provides reasonable medical evidence to dispute this. Additionally, if the employer fails to provide such evidence, the firefighter will still benefit from the presumption.

The bill also introduces a requirement for claims to be paid within 21 days of notice to the workers' compensation carrier, and benefits will continue until clear and convincing evidence is presented that the cancer is not occupationally related. Other provisions include conditions for call and volunteer firefighters to receive the presumption based on medical evidence of being disease-free at the start of employment, and for retired firefighters to maintain eligibility for benefits under certain conditions. The bill aims to ensure that firefighters receive timely compensation for work-related health issues while also addressing the potential financial implications for the workers' compensation program due to increased claims and treatment costs.