This bill amends the existing workers' compensation laws to establish a prima facie presumption that heart or lung diseases, as well as cancer, are occupationally related for firefighters, unless clear and convincing evidence is provided to the contrary. Specifically, it inserts provisions that require employers to provide reasonable medical evidence for call or volunteer firefighters to benefit from this presumption, and it stipulates that retired firefighters must undergo physical examinations to maintain their eligibility for benefits. The bill also clarifies that the presumption for cancer applies to all firefighters, including regular, call, volunteer, and retired members, and outlines the conditions under which these firefighters can claim benefits, including the requirement for a tobacco-free lifestyle and the necessity of medical examinations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that claims for workers' compensation benefits be paid within 21 days of notice to the carrier and continue until clear and convincing evidence is presented that the cancer is not occupationally related. This change aims to streamline the claims process and ensure timely support for firefighters suffering from these diseases. The bill does not allocate new funding or positions but acknowledges potential increased costs for the state workers' compensation program due to the high expenses associated with cancer treatment and the broader application of the presumption, which may lead to a rise in claims and expenditures at various governmental levels.