This bill amends Section 52-3-32.1 of the New Mexico Statutes to expand the list of occupational diseases presumed to be caused by employment as a firefighter. It specifies that if a firefighter is diagnosed with certain cancers, such as bladder, breast, brain, and others, after five years of employment, these conditions are presumed to be work-related, provided they were not revealed during initial medical screenings. Additionally, the bill includes other conditions like hepatitis, tuberculosis, and posttraumatic stress disorder, which are also presumed to be caused by firefighting duties if diagnosed after employment begins.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a presumption that heart injuries or strokes occurring within 24 hours of firefighting activities are work-related, unless specific conditions regarding physical training programs and medical screenings are not met. It allows for these presumptions to be rebutted by evidence showing that the firefighter engaged in high-risk activities outside of work. Medical treatment for these conditions is mandated to be provided by the employer until a court determines otherwise, ensuring that firefighters receive necessary care for job-related injuries or conditions.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 52-3-32.1
Final Version: 52-3-32.1