House Bill No. 2011, titled the "Fighting Chance for Firefighters Act," aims to enhance cancer screening for firefighters in Oklahoma. The bill establishes a framework for cancer centers in the state to provide occupational cancer screenings, thereby covering associated costs. Additionally, it amends existing law to include municipal and county fire departments as eligible groups for participation in the Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System, expanding access to health insurance benefits for these first responders.
The bill also makes several amendments to the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Plans, including the addition of fire departments to the list of groups eligible for benefits. It specifies that these groups must have 100% participation in the health plan and outlines the conditions under which employees can continue their health insurance coverage after retirement or termination. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.