This bill amends existing workers' compensation law to provide presumptive benefits for public safety workers who developed illnesses or injuries as a result of their response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. It establishes that any injury, illness, or death caused by exposure to known carcinogens or cancer-causing substances during their employment will be presumed compensable, provided the worker can demonstrate exposure and that the condition manifested during their employment. Additionally, the bill allows for the presumption of compensability for any illness, injury, or death related to the September 11 attacks, regardless of when the claim is filed, as long as the worker has participated in the World Trade Center Health Program.

The bill also includes provisions for notifying public safety workers and their families about their rights under this law. Specifically, it mandates that the Division of Archives and Records Management, along with local public safety agencies, must inform all active and retired personnel, as well as next-of-kin of deceased workers, about the presumption of compensability within three months of the bill's effective date. Furthermore, it outlines the process for filing claims and stipulates that any previous benefits received from other workers' compensation programs will be credited against any new claims made under this bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:15-31.7