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 these examinations to 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 physicians or providers can seek reimbursement from the State for the cost of these examinations, capped at $1,250 per firefighter every three years.

The legislation extends the existing provisions for paid firefighters, who already receive similar benefits, to include unpaid volunteer firefighters. It also requires fire districts and departments that utilize volunteer firefighters to maintain adequate records to support the reimbursement process. The bill ensures that no co-payments, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses will be required from the firefighters for these examinations, thereby enhancing their access to essential health screenings.