The bill amends Section 45-19.1-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-19.1, which is entitled "Cancer Benefits for Fire Fighters." The amendment includes changes to the definitions relevant to the chapter. Specifically, the term "fire fighter" is redefined to expand the scope of who is considered a fire fighter. The previous language stating that a fire fighter is "assigned to" a fire department has been deleted. Instead, the new language defines a fire fighter as a "member of" a fire department or a city, town, or fire district emergency medical services unit. This change broadens the eligibility for cancer benefits to include members of emergency medical services units alongside traditional fire department personnel.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that "occupational cancer" refers to cancer that arises due to exposure to harmful substances while performing active duty in the fire department. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage. The explanation provided by the Legislative Council indicates that the purpose of the act is to define a fire fighter in a way that includes members of emergency services units for the purposes of providing cancer benefits.

Statutes affected:
226: 45-19.1-2