This bill mandates that volunteer firefighters in New Jersey have access to periodic cancer screening examinations, allowing them to be reimbursed for these examinations if they are not covered by their health insurance. The screenings are to be conducted at least five years after the start of their service and every three years thereafter. The bill outlines specific types of cancers to be screened, including colon, lung, bladder, and others. It also establishes that serving as a volunteer firefighter is considered a pre-existing condition for the purpose of reimbursement eligibility.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that starting January 1, 2023, volunteer firefighters can receive reimbursement from the State for the cost of these examinations, with a maximum reimbursement of $1,250 per three-year period, adjusted annually for inflation. Importantly, there will be no copayments, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses required for these examinations. The bill also mandates that the Director of the Division of Local Government Services request necessary appropriations from the State General Fund to cover these reimbursements.