This bill mandates that volunteer firefighters in New Jersey have access to periodic cancer screening examinations at no cost, conducted by physicians within the State Health Benefits Program network. Specifically, it requires that these examinations occur at least once every three years, starting three years after a firefighter begins their service. The screenings must cover a range of cancers, including colon, lung, bladder, oral, thyroid, skin, blood, breast, cervical, testicular, and prostate cancers. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the State will reimburse physicians or providers for the cost of these examinations, capped at $1,250 per firefighter every three years.

The legislation also requires fire districts and departments that utilize volunteer firefighters to maintain adequate records to support the payment process for these screenings. It ensures that no co-payments, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses will be incurred by the firefighters for these examinations. This bill effectively extends the existing provisions for paid firefighters regarding cancer screenings to include unpaid volunteer firefighters, thereby enhancing their access to essential health services.